Who of These Four Get to Start For Barca Against Milan?
By Stephen Tizzard*
Morocco News Tribune
Barcelona, Spain| With Xavi Hernández ready to play in tomorrow’s clash of the titans, by far the most important game this season for Barca, there is just one doubt regarding the first eleven, and it’s all about one vacant spot and who should get it.
Barca has to score at least three goals and the team needs to choose well so as to not make the slightest mistake.
In addition to the vacant spot, only the right wing could present a problem. Logic states that Dani Alves should occupy that position but the presence of El Sharawy on the left could make Jordi Roura opt for Adriano, who shuts players down better in defense.
Considering the starting eleven that would be: Valdés, Alves, Puyol, Pique, Jordi Alba, Busquets, Xavi, Iniesta, Pedro and Messi, the options for filling the vacant spot would be Villa, Alexis, Cesc and Tello.
David Villa: The Spanish international is a guaranteed goal scorer and after Messi, he’s the player who is most likely to find the net. On the day that the club needs goals the most, Villa can be a good alternative. One thing against Villa is that he’s not exactly at his peak regarding physical fitness. Against Deportivo on Saturday, the Spaniard failed to net any of the 3 chances he had.
Alexis Sánchez: He had a good outing against Fernando Vázquez’s team on Saturday and showed us his best side. He scored a goal from an assist by Alves, redeeming himself for the clash against Milan. Despite that, it’s still been a disappointing season for the Chilean. He’s failed a lot this season and sometimes with clear chances in front of goal which can be a handicap for such an important day in which no prisoners will be taken. Alexis will need to be at his very best to earn his place.
Cesc Fabregás.: His presence adds more control to the Barca midfield and gives the team a more solid core. Alongside him, Iniesta would join him, making it three at the front. Things against Cesc would be that in recent matches his level has plummeted. Since the first leg in Milan he hasn’t been the same. He’s lost his touch for goals.
Cristian Tello: With 21 year-old Cristian Tello, Barca would be more likely to open up the Italian defense. He’s the most extreme winger of all, living on the line. His start against Deportivo could have been interpreted as a test, but he didn’t pass it well enough to warrant starting tomorrow night.
*For more articles written by Stephen Tizzard, please visit his website here.