Barcelona comprehensively beat Las Palmas 5-0 at Camp Nou.
Successful Squad Rotation
Luis Enrique’s successful rotation of his squad deserves to be praised. Whenever it goes wrong he is blamed, with the game against Alavés being a great example, so it is only fair to commend him for his changes. There were five changes to the squad for this game. However, there was no sign of any lack of chemistry between the players, though. If anything, the players brought in thrived with Aleix Vidal specifically deserving a mention. It was nice to see Paco Alcácer and Vidal link up for the final goal, and the happiness on their faces after the goal was a good sign. Squad morale is key if a team wants to be successful in the league, so periphery players who are happy with their roles are vital.
Being able to have faith in the rotation players takes the pressure off the key players, which is important in terms of the mental side of the game because it allows them to get the best out of the system they play rather than relying on the magic of individuals. It also reduces the effects of fatigue significantly, which was a major problem last season.
Importance of Turan
More from Analysis
- FC Barcelona vs Betis Player Ratings
- How can Xavi unlock Joao Felix for FC Barcelona?
- Where does Joao Cancelo fit for FC Barcelona?
- Three takeaways from Barcelona’s 4-3 win at Villarreal
- Barcelona vs Cádiz Player Ratings from a 2-0 win
Arda Turan is increasingly showing his importance in these kind of matches. He added another goal to bring his impressive tally up to ten so far this season. His experience and quality are vital in these kind of matches because of the amount of changes in the team. This can lead to attacking moves breaking down in crucial areas due to the lack of familiarity between players. However, when Turan has played this season he has ensured that this hasn’t happened. He has been clinical with the chances that have come his way, and is starting to regain his form from the Atlético Madrid days. It’s also important that he keeps this form because he is primarily being used as backup to Lionel Messi or Neymar, which is a role that relies on a player being clinical.
Next: Luis Enrique's comments on Aleix Vidal's performance
Faith in Gomes
The Portuguese star seems to be a favourite of Lucho, and he seems to be paying the favour back currently. Initially he seemed to struggle with the defensive side of the role. He seems to have adapted, though, and looks composed in the midfield. For the first goal, he provided the cut-back which Luis Suárez scored from. The fact that he already seems to have adapted to the role is great news because he is important for Barcelona’s future. It’s also important because players usually require a season to settle, so this gives Enrique plenty of options in midfield. Especially seen as Ivan Rakitić has been struggling of later. Therefore, this healthy competition gets the best out of the players.