Barcelona to rethink their setup due to Portuguese star’s involvement

Barcelona currently possess a grand variety of players that have showcased their versatility. While specialists are needed in their own right, players that are capable of offering a different kind of utility are also important. However, even quality players can sometimes feel lost when it comes to finding their best positions.

For instance, while a certain star player can be great in one position, a manager may opt to try them in another. They could either seem promising in this new position or completely feel ineffective. In the case of a particular Barcelona full-back, it’s more of a mix between both.

Experimenting with Cancelo
Joao Cancelo, on loan from Manchester City, is one of Xavi’s most trusted stars on the field. Since his arrival, Barcelona have switched up their setups in games just to ensure his participation. As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, he was originally being used as Barça’s primary right-back. However, he has recently been deployed as a right-winger on two occasions.

While it seemed like a clever tactical switch-up by Xavi initially, it has proven to be rather ineffective. Cancelo ends up typically showcasing his clever footwork and dazzling in front of his marker, but nothing much amounts following that. The report even suggests that the likes of Lamine Yamal, Raphinha, and Ferran Torres offer much more as wingers that Cancelo has thus far showcased.

Left-back option
Another option to utilize Cancelo could be for him to replace Alejandro Balde. Last season, the youngster was allowed much freedom in terms of offensive creativity. This was due to the rest of the three defensive players all improvising while being central defenders. The defensive solidity with those three allowed Balde to showcase his offensive talents without much worry.

For Cancelo, a similar setup could undoubtedly be quite useful. Already proven as a world-class creative outlet, the more Barcelona allow him to assert himself the better it is for Xavi’s side. His arrival from Manchester City has increased Barça’s level without a doubt. However, even star players can create unique dilemmas for managers to then solve.