European Problems, Mexican Solutions: Barcelona
Until recently, Barcelona had long been linked with innovation; from Cruyff’s 3-4-3 to tiki-taka soccer, Barca has always been ahead of the trend. Recently though, a lackluster season in which their arch-rivals claimed La Liga and an embarrassing 8-2 Champions League defeat to eventual champions Bayern Munich has the club struggling to ride the ship. While the word rebuild is forbidden with the world’s top clubs, Barcelona must quickly correct its course. Here we have a few Mexican Solutions to European Problems.
In a previous article, we discussed three players Barcelona great Hristo Stoichkov had suggested to the board but were shut down. Today we have identified three areas of need for Los Cules and how Mexican players can resolve those issues.
Left-Back
Barcelona has aging backs and a lack of depth. At the time of writing, they have four left or right-backs, and two are injured. The recent addition of Sergiño Dest on the right should help, but a left-back that can defend and know when to get forward is necessary. Monterrey’s Jesus Gallardo can solve both problems. The 26-year-old has World Cup experience, and his intensity, pace, and strength will benefit Barcelona’s style of play. His history as a winger means he’s comfortable with the ball at his feet, taking people on, and passing from the wing, giving the team much-needed width and opening up the middle for Messi to work. At around $8-10 million, he is a value pick up.
Center Midfield
Los Blaugrana lost Arturo Vidal, Ivan Rakitic, Rafinha, Monchu, and Arthur this transfer window. The new manager Koeman has made it clear that rising star Riqui Puig is not in his current plans, and that has left the team very thin in a position that used to be a strength. A forgotten Mextranjero, Erick Gutierrez, could be the answer. Gutierrez is 25, and his box-to-box style of play is something Barca is currently lacking. He currently has a 68% tackle success rate with six blocked shots and an 88% pass completion rate. Gutierrez is great with the ball at his feet and knows when to press high or fall back and cut off passing lanes, all while playing the ball in the Barca way. Koeman’s preference for Dutch or Dutch-based players may benefit Erick. At around $10-15 million, El Guti’s price should not be an issue.
Striker
The sudden departure of Luis Suarez has left a huge hole in Barcelona’s attack. El Pistolero’s ability to hold the ball and move into space was only beaten by his deadly finishing. The obvious choice here is Raul Jimenez; however, El Lobo has recently signed a new contract with Wolves, and the $100 million price tag he comes with is an issue. Our pick is America’s, Henry Martin. While not as attractive an option as say JJ Macias or Santiago Gimenez, Martin is solid. Now, I’m in no way saying Martin can replace Suarez, but his style of play would help open up spaces for Barcelona’s speedy wings. Henry can play as a lone striker and allow Griezmann to play as a false 9 and Messi to return to his drifting 10 positions where they are both most dangerous. His ability to hold the ball and pass will open up lanes for Fati, Messi, and Griezmann to get behind defenders, and his blue-collar work ethic will keep constant pressure on defenses.
