Five talking points from Barcelona’s draw against Getafe

Barcelona provided another dismal performance in their second consecutive draw, this time on the road against Getafe.

The Catalan created little going forward and saw their lead in LaLiga drop to 11 points over Real Madrid.

Here are five talking points coming out of the match.

Xavi’s experiment on the left did not bear fruit

One of the quirks in the starting line-up was Xavi Hernandez deciding to go with Jordi Alba at left-back, moving Alejandro Balde higher on the pitch, serving as the left winger in attack alongside Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha.

The introduction of Alba as a second-half substitute against Girona pushed the team forward a bit. That was likely the reason why Xavi decided to play the veteran defender.

However, his experiment didn’t work as Alba looked his age as well as a player who hasn’t played a lot recently. His crosses were poor and erred on simple passes, creating dangerous opportunities for Getafe. As a result, it was no surprise he was one of the first players yanked in the second-half.

Balde also looked like a player who wasn’t used to playing as an attacker as he was very easily caught offside on a handful of occasions.

Given how things went, it’s probably the first and final time Xavi will try this experiment, at least until Barcelona wrap up the league.

Barcelona’s third straight game without a goal

The offense is struggling. There is no question about it.

The draw against Getafe marked the third straight game where the Catalan side failed to score.

Their best opportunity came through Raphinha who had a one-on-one against the Getafe keeper. His shot hit the post. The rebound fell to Balde who hit the same post with his shot.

Lewandowski looked frustrated throughout the match and had to drop deep to get a touch on the ball. As a striker who needs service, he certainly didn’t get it from any of the wide forwards.

Using the injured players as an excuse only goes so far but their absence has been hugely felt. In addition to the poor play from the wingers, Barcelona also haven’t gotten anything from their midfield. Their insistence to play it wide bypasses the midfield and Sergio Busquets’ distribution can only do so much.

With Xavi’s focus on trying to get the best out of Lewandowski, he certainly isn’t getting it by only playing one true winger. He did bring on Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres but once again, both were all but invisible with the latter adding absolutely nothing during his time on the pitch.

Ansu Fati’s future unfortunately looking clearer

Speaking of Ansu Fati, while he is determined to succeed at the club, Xavi’s decision to play Balde instead of him all but sent a message to where is at in the pecking order.

As it stands, his future looks far away from Barcelona despite showing flashes here and there. The camera panned to him on a number of occasions, looking none too pleased about starting another game on the bench.

He did have a bit more impact than Torres, whose future is also in doubt, but not enough to break the deadlock or see him getting a start next weekend against Atletico Madrid.

With how much hope has been placed on him. he might be feeling the pressure to perform and his eagerness is starting to cost him in terms of decision making. He knows he needs to do better and only has a handful of games left to prove his case.

Raphinha throws a tantrum after being subbed out

As mentioned, Barcelona’s attack once again looked toothless. With five minutes to go, Xavi decided to take off Raphinha for Pablo Torre.

The Brazilian was not happy about having to come off and was caught throwing a tantrum and yelling presumably at Xavi.

This isn’t the first time Raphinha has done this and it’s become a common reaction every time he’s taken out. He explained his reaction after the game.

“It’s difficult because you like to be on the field and help the team win. We needed a goal to win,” Raphinha said. “It’s normal, the anger of the game. We were drawing and it bothers me a bit. I like to continue on the pitch.”

On one hand, no player likes to be subbed off. On the other, it’s a sign of disrespect towards the manager to so evidently vent your frustration. Again, it’s not the first time he’s done it and he’s already issued an apology for reacting that way.

If Bori Fati’s, Ansu’s father, words about his son not playing didn’t sit well at the Camp Nou, how well are Raphinha’s reactions being received?

Ansu has rarely shown the same reaction as Raphinha yet the Brazilian keeps getting chance after chance despite his inconsistencies. Barcelona know they need are going to need to move some of the attackers on. Fati and Torres are seemingly on the list. It wouldn’t be a surprise if Raphinha is also on it if the club end up deciding he is not worth the headache.