Barcelona and Valencia’s last meeting earlier this season ended in a 1-1 draw at Mestalla. The scoreboard, however, was kind to the hosts.
The Catalans created an xG of 3.24 on the night and were woeful in front of goal. Valencia, meanwhile, equalised with an xG of merely 0.54, and it was one of those several games in this season’s La Liga where Barcelona threw points away.
Heading into tonight’s clash at Montjuic, Ruben Baraja’s men sit in eighth place, two points behind Real Betis who have a spot in Europe. They do have a game in hand, however, and a win will propel them into the aforementioned berth.
Barcelona, meanwhile, have been pushed to third place by Girona and will fight to regain their authority over the second-place. Needless to say, a fascinating clash awaits the Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.
Barça Universal brings you three talking points ahead of Barcelona vs Valencia.
The renewed project
Just over under three months is all it took for fans and the board to understand Xavi’s importance in Barcelona’s rebuild.
The manager’s decision to announce his departure was a masterstroke in disguise, not only to push the players but also to create a good image amongst followers.
Needless to say, Catalonia was a happy place earlier this week when Joan Laporta confirmed Xavi’s continuity for one more year.
The uncertainty around the club’s summer transfer window plans for next season and renewal statuses were instantly rewarded with clarity, helping begin the project rejuvenated.
The biggest talking point ahead of Barcelona’s clash against Valencia, needless to say, is the fact that it is the first time the team take the field after the announcement of Xavi’s continuity.
With the guilt and pressure off their backs, it remains to be seen if the players can keep up the steam and stay motivated to finish the season on a high.
After all, Barcelona are now virtually out of contention for all trophies and their games serve no real purpose…
Source link : https://barcauniversal.com/three-talking-points-ahead-of-barcelona-vs-valencia-2/
Author : Adithya Eshwarla
Publish date : 2024-04-29 10:29:30
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