Five talking points from Barcelona’s win over Real Sociedad
What to do with Ansu Fati?
Circling back around, there’s no argument the pivotal moment of the game was the substitution of Ansu Fati. More often than not, when he enters a game, he has a positive influence on it.
Therein lies the problem.
Barcelona have not had the luxury of counting on a fully fit Ansu Fati. His most recent knee injury showed no signs of improvement while his recovery process went slower than predicted. Slowly but surely, Barcelona is trying to ease him back to avoid another relapse.
But with Barcelona struggling at times in attack, the questions are going to pile up as to whether or not it’s time to give Fati a spot in the starting lineup. He showed what he is capable of against Real Sociedad and how he can dictate a game.
The other argument is he is better utilized as an impact sub at this point with the focus on building him up for an eventual starting spot.
One thing that is certain is having the likes of Ansu Fati, and Raphinha, as options on the bench is something not many teams can say.
Next. Lewandowski brace leads Barcelona past Real Sociedad. dark
There is no doubt Fati is an important part of Xavi’s project. But they’re being careful with him because, alongside Pedri, Araujo and Kounde, he is an important piece of the club’s future. Xavi is going to continue to monitor his minutes but this “headache” of what to do with him is certainly one any manager would like to have.