Barcelona won their match against Osasuna. But the performance raised more questions than answers.
Here are three things we learned from Saturday night at El Sadar:
1. Barcelona can't create without Yamal. But they can win anyway
Barcelona were missing threat and incisiveness in the final third for large portions of the first half. They were passing, not creating.
Budimir's header that struck the post was a clear sign of danger. Joan Garcia made critical saves. At half-time, Osasuna would have felt they deserved more than a 0-0 scoreline.
This is what we mean by the Yamal factor. It's not just his goals or his assists, it's the unpredictability he brings the game just by his mere presence. When Yamal goes at a defender, opposition's shape is altered all around him.
Take him out of the final third and it becomes easier for the opponent to organise themselves as the threat become more predictable.
However the positive is that they did manage to find a way of winning the game. Flick made changes at half time and pushed the side higher, which in turn gave Barcelona a territory and grip of the game. They went on with drive and scored two.
A team capable of grinding out a result without their most exciting talent is the hallmark of champions. Yet the difference Yamal leaves behind is obvious.
2. Lewandowski still provides when it matters most
At the age of 37 in the 81st minute of a high-pressure away game, Lewandowski bulleted a header past the Osasuna defense to break the deadlock. The delivery from Rashford was superb but the run and the finish were instinct honed over two decades of elite football.
His stats alone for this season speak volumes:
- 13 goals in La Liga and 18 in all competitions.
- Consistent crucial goals in must win games.
- Reference point for the entire forward structure
Even after all this, his contract issue is still unresolved. Flick has yet to speak with Lewandowski. It is unknown whether the club can bring in a striker this summer.
But judging by his performances this season, it’s getting harder and harder to suggest replacing him outright.
3. Rashford keeps doing more to force Barcelona's hand.
Rashford's cross for Lewandowski was perfect and he's been delivering consistent perfomances coming off the bench. It is his second consecutive game where he has been involved in two goals.
Barcelona are now having to consider paying out that £30m. Rashford brings in that intensity and unpredictability in the final third.
Barcelona are clearly concerned about the fee and Manchester United value him at £30m. Rashford is undoubtedly making Flick’s life extremely complicated with his recent form The former Bayern Munich coach needs a player to deliver, and Rashford has shown he can.
The decision is fast approaching and Rashford is showing he is capable of producing that bit of magic when it counts.
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