Barça Player Ratings: A 3-4 thriller vs Villareal

Forwards

Lamine Yamal – 8

Yamal still struggles defensively, and at times he left Sergi Roberto on an island to defend two players at once. Raphinha would’ve tracked back much more quickly and lent a hand there. But Yamal is 16. Surely he won’t keep starting every match, and surely he’ll learn more and more as time goes on. Offensively, however? Exciting. Super exciting. He can take on defenders, which he did late on in the first half when he split two defenders inside the box. He can pass, which he did for the first goal on a cross to Gavi. And he’s got personality, hitting the post twice. The second of those occasions ended in a wide-open tap in for Lewandowski. Don’t want to hype him up too much, but Barça may have something special here.

Robert Lewandowski – 5.5

While he did get a goal today, it was through no real merit of his own. The same problems that have plagued him through the start of the season continued today, and there doesn’t seem to be improvement thus far. He loses far too many balls by dropping too deep. He ventured out onto the left wing for some reason in the second half, and he scuffed a couple of shots that really deserved better finishes. He had a 1 on 1 with the keeper, a wide-open Ansu to his left, and his shot seemed… disinterested. And was saved. He’s playing like someone devoid of confidence right now.

Ferran Torres – 8

Came on in the 63rd minute for Romeu. Ferran has burst onto the scene early on this season. He’s looked sharp, fit, and motivated. The shark scored again in this one, off a somewhat difficult finish. He was quick, recovered three or four balls in the press, and showed off his movement. Starting as a LW, he came into the middle, combined well there, and finished on the right. Those within the Barça coaching staff have to very seriously consider Ferran starting over Lewandowski.

Ansu Fati – 6

Came on in the 76th minute for Yamal. Strange game from him today, and a selfish one. He wasted several chances, looking spent for confidence. He had a golden opportunity to pass to Lewandowski late on and ice the game… but he didn’t. It seems Ansu is feeling the pressure right now and desperately wants to score or be shipped out of the club. He needs to lighten up, and quick, or he won’t get many more chances.