Memphis Depay made the ultimate decision to stay at Barcelona in the summer. He now intends to make things challenging for his coach, Xavi Hernández. Additionally, he is confident that he can be helpful this season.
Xavi gave him another chance in the league on Saturday against Elche because of his unquestionable attitude in training. The Dutchman reacted with a goal and a performance that makes him a viable option for Xavi when necessary in his second start following Cádiz a week ago.
DECENT PERFORMANCE VERSUS ELCHE.
For Memphis, it wasn't a perfect match. Memphis occasionally displayed signs of unease, but the Dutchman was aggressive in his pressing and never backed down from a fight with his marker, the Colombian Palacios.
He had a hard time getting into the game. He did, however, start to regain his attacking form when he passed to Lewandowski in the 13th minute and made an effort to help the Pole when he took a free kick three minutes later.
He was always willing to help, and as a result of his persistence, he started to trouble the Elche defense. He had a one-on-one opportunity with Edgar Bada in front of the byline in the 19th minute, but he was unable to capitalize on it, and five minutes later the Elche goalkeeper deflected a shot of his from six yards wide for a corner.
Memphis got involved in every Barça either directly or indirectly. He missed Balde's left-wing cross that Lewandowski tipped into the goal for the 1-0 by only millimeters. And just before halftime, he displayed his aptitude for scoring with a twist and finish that made it 2-0.
With his back to the goal, Memphis handled a Balde pass, got rid of a defender stepping on the ball, and turned around to shoot past Bada with a strong shot that struck the top of the net.
Memphis also made a key contribution in the 3-0. Lewandowski scored off the rebound after the Elche goalie blinked under pressure from him.
The Dutchman completed his effort with a header from a Dembélé cross that missed the mark (57'). He was replaced by Ansu Fati by Xavi two minutes later.
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