Setien got the squad and formation perfect for a mouth watering re-start to Barca'a campaign in UCL. 442 is disastrous for FCB with its current squad and thankfully Setien didn't go for it, despite having a history of using that formation. 442 needs two very mobile and decently physical upfront players and surely Suarez is passed it for that formation and none of the other players except Griez fit in to the front two in that system.
Setien today got the formation perfect. 4312 was the system to go for. The much revered Villareal game formation. Since that games pundits have been craving for that formation and I think that is the formation to be used in the next few matches. Few matches -because Barca is going deep in to the UCL folks. Messi is in the f**** mood. While, the front three did not connect as well with each other as they did in the Villareal game, the formation allowed their individual game to add to the overall play. Griez always kept the heat on. Suarez despite a few missed passes and turnovers, kept defenders on him, opening up space. FDJ was very good in parts. Roberto was good overall but never really exceptional. Raki orchestrated to perfection. Yes, he should play forward a bit more. But, he can surely make that change in the next match. Yes, he needs to start as the CDM over Busi in all matches. I have been awed by Busi since late 2000s. But, he's definitely past it to be the starting CDM for Barca especially against strong teams. No doubt, he is still one of the best on that position with his touch and ability to escape pressure. But, as a CDM he has to run a lot more to defend, and he doesn't have the legs for it anymore. He also is prone to errors near the Barca box since last couple of seasons. Also, he never brought any individual attacking threat in terms of either shooting or corner kicks. And this is the reason, given current squad, I prefer Raki to him. Although, seeing FDJ today, it is clear he can be the single pivot, skip through players using his long decisive strides.
The biggest boost for the team today was not Messi despite another outworldy (word created for him) performance. Barca defence was rock solid except the initial minutes of the game. It felt like Mourinho's Chelsea team, which could take as many attacks as you want to throw at them. This is a great sign. Because, Barca will always score goals in these games. But they have to be miser in their own net. After having seen Bayern's game, I dont see them winning against us if Barca play anywhere close to what they did today.
Forca Barca.
Comments
Post a Comment