Barcelona is under intense pressure following recent dismal performances against Inter and Real Madrid. However, such pressure has sharply narrowed in on a few specific people. Sergio Busquets was one of the players.
Frenkie de Jong performed admirably in his typical pivot role against Villarreal on Thursday. Some have begun to speculate as to whether Barcelona may benefit from having de Jong play at the base more frequently.
Before Barcelona's match against Athletic Club, manager Xavi Hernandez was questioned by Marca about if pivote was his best position.
"Despite the fact that he is excellent at defense, I see him more as an inside (further forward) because of his potential. He has offensive differential potential, in my opinion. He played really well the other day. He must be significant because I admire him and he has a lot of promise. I can see that he sees the game more clearly when it is in front of him. He must be played against the opposition."
Later, when de Jong replaced Busquets, he was asked how that affected the team.
"It alters the way the opposition plays more. Frenkie managed to get on the ball a lot the other day since he was the free man and understood it well. That place is frequently marked."
"There are numerous factors to take into account while playing the pivot position, including numerous defensive plays and covering runs. In order to exit, you must select the appropriate pass. Frenkie succeeded."
"Busquets is a master, then. Because he always knows where to be and steals the ball, Busi will remain crucial in my opinion."
Xavi's choices will serve as the proof. Busquets has frequently been exposed in recent seasons when playing against stronger opponents, and de Jong can undeniably cover more ground.
Busquets may still be a better footballer, but if Barcelona doesn't match Busquets' strengths and limitations in their game plan, it will work out better for them.
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