A detailed analysis of how Ernesto Valverde transformed Barcelona

Modified Jan 28, 2018 16:14 GMT

Where to fit Iniesta and Paulinho?

At the age of 33, it is clear that Andres Iniesta’s footballing life expectancy won’t stretch much longer. Under Valverde, however, his aging legs are being used effectively. By using the athleticism of Alba down the left wing, Iniesta can tuck in and look to either attack the box more centrally or slide passes either in between the lines or behind the opposition right back, as well as having the time to switch play. It gives him the freedom to be creative, as well as negating the amount of hard running or defensive work that he would be asked to do as a flat central midfielder.

Paulinho was an interesting purchase for Barcelona during the summer of 2017. Having failed to set his mark in the Premier League with Tottenham, there was not much optimism with regard to what he could offer a big club that would be challenging for titles. Given his physicality and stature, however, the Brazilian had a clear skill set that did not previously exist within the club’s ranks. He is being used as a link from midfield to the front two of Messi and Suárez, with his power aiding his runs from deep or ability to challenge for aerial or loose balls in or around the box. He has the freedom to step up, while Ivan Rakitic and Sergio Busquets cover the required central midfield space off the ball. Paulinho can play neatly off the front two, or get in the box to help challenge for deliveries from wide areas, with his height and broad physique giving Valverde’s forward line a physical edge they previously lacked.