Barcelona: Sergi Roberto needs to change position
Sergi Roberto’s limitations have been exposed on numerous occasions in the right-back position so a different role is needed to bring the best out of him.
Barcelona’s defensive woes are well-known and there are numerous reasons behind why they can’t keep clean sheets. They need to be addressed soon before they have a permanent impact on their chances of winning silverware. Replacing Sergi Roberto at the right-back position is one solution that has to be enacted seen as Nelson Semedo is better defensively. However, that doesn’t mean Roberto should lose his spot in the first-team.
The 26-year-old is a fan favourite due to his involvement in key victories, his La Masia education and his tireless work-rate. He is also clearly a favourite of Ernesto Valverde as he tries to play him whenever possible, but it’s fair to say that he is a liability in the right-back position. Central midfield was his original position, although he doesn’t offer more than any of the current starters in those positions.
Playing him in the left-wing role could be a way to include him, although it would require some reshuffling of the team. Philippe Coutinho would have to be pushed back into central midfield, while Semedo replaces Roberto in the right-back spot.
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
In theory, Roberto could track back to play as the left central midfielder in a 4-4-2 defensive shape and Coutinho covers the left midfield spot. Roberto has the willingness and necessary work-rate to do that while also playing high up the pitch as part of the attack. He could draw defenders away from the other forwards with his selfless off-the-ball runs into the box, which would ensure Coutinho can play in the central attacking areas and Jordi Alba isn’t impeded in making his usual lung-busting runs on the wing.
Ivan Rakitic would have to be the right central midfielder rather than Arturo Vidal, though, due to him being more conservative so they would be less exposed during the defensive transition. Ideally, Roberto’s runs would be similar to what Paulinho did last season; his close ball control and awareness mean he would be suitable for this due to making the right decisions in and out of possession.
dark. Next. Atletico Madrid vs Barcelona: Expected starting XI
Against Real Madrid, he thrived when he was pushed further forwards by Valverde in the second half, with two assists to his name. He has made a name for himself contributing late on in key games, so having him involved in attacking areas during the latter stages of matches wouldn’t be the worst idea. The midfield was really slow to transition in the Real Betis match, so he would help reduce their exposure in that phase, although the issue is unlikely to go away altogether.
It would see Ousmane Dembele and Malcom miss out on being starters, but it would potentially provide additional defensive solidity and they could still be used as impact substitutes. The midweek Champions League clash with PSV could be a good time to try it due to Barcelona already being qualified for the knockout stages.