3) Sergi Roberto should be deployed as an attacking right-back
Last season Sergi Roberto was the toast of the town as his versatility allowed him to be deployed in as many as seven different positions in Barcelona's lineup. The 25-year-old can play as a midfielder, winger or as a full-back and his tactical intelligence allows him to do just what is necessary.
But at Barcelona, you need a player that can play above and beyond what is required. Roberto’s lack of attacking impetus when he plays as a right-back exposes a flaw in Barcelona’s attack when Lionel Messi drifts inside – there is no support on the right when they lose the ball and Roberto is effectively on his own.
As a result, Roberto puts himself on a short leash and it curbs his attacking instincts to avoid abandoning his position to make marauding runs. Only 14% of Barcelona’s shots come in from the right. It is a stark contrast to Jordi Alba on the other flank who works hard to make runs into the box and it does have a telling effect on the game when Barcelona’s attacking trio are marked out of the game.
Dani Alves was one of their best players for years before his departure to Juventus last summer. Sadly, the club never replaced him and they have paid the price this season. If they are to give Real Madrid something to think about, Roberto’s attacking runs could prompt Marcelo to stay in his own half rather than give Real an advantage in attack.
Of course, this will only work if Barcelona’s right midfielder plays wider than usual to help cover for him or they risk allowing Ronaldo to run riot.
