After the departure of Andrés Iniesta, a new opportunity has opened up
Last season, Denis Suárez was below both Andrés Iniesta and Philippe Coutinho in the pecking order. Ernesto Valverde preferred Andrés Iniesta as the starter, and used Philippe Coutinho to rest him after the arrival of the Brazilian in January.
Denis Suárez was largely kept out of the scheme of things at the Camp Nou. The 24-year old playmaker made just 21 appearances in all competitions, with only 6 starts. He scored 3 goals and provided 3 assists. But this season, an interesting opportunity has opened up for him.
Iniesta’s exit makes Phillipe Coutinho the undisputed starter. But Denis Suárez has the opportunity to take over from Coutinho as second-choice playmaker on the left. He has realised that he has a huge opportunity, and has understood that the upcoming season is detrimental to his career.
"He said, “I’m heading into the season full of confidence. I’m desperate for this to be the definitive year for me and to be more involved than I have been in previous seasons. I feel like this year will be different. I hope to take advantage of gaps left by those who are no longer here.More from Everything BarcaFC Barcelona tracking Belgian WonderkidFC Barcelona vs Betis Player RatingsBarça boss Xavi to get contract extensionFC Barcelona planning swoop for Arsenal midfielderBarcelona interested in €30 million wonderkidHe asked me to take a step forward. I know what I need to give and I believe I’m capable of doing that. The loss of Andrés is major blow but I hope to take advantage of his absence to play more often than I have before.”"
This pre-season will shape Ernesto Valverde’s opinion of him, and Denis Suárez needs to make sure that he performs well in the International Champions Cup. Philippe Coutinho is on an extended leave after the World Cup, and Denis will start most games.
Denis is a La Masia graduate, and he knows the club inside out despite of the fact that he spent many years away at Manchester City and on loan. He would set the perfect example for the likes of Riqui Puig and Carles Pérez, that there is a chance for La Masia youngsters at the club.
But in order to be in contention for a squad player spot, he will need to improve his finishing. The 24-year old Spanish midfielder has missed many good chances and he cannot do that anymore. But apart from that, Denis Suárez is all up for being a backup to Philippe Coutinho.