Barcelona 1-0 Espanyol: 5 talking points as Memphis Depay penalty kicks off Xavi era with win | La Liga 2021-22

#3 Espanyol squandered too many chances against Barcelona

Espanyol could've won the game had they taken their chances.

There was a renewed sense of vigour and a feeling of elation engulfing Barcelona. But it wasn't a very impressive performance from the Blaugrana, who could've lost the game had Espanyol been more clinical.

The visitors looked dangerous in the final quarter of the match. They created some excellent chances, only to see them fly wide or come off the post. Raul De Tomas hit the post twice - first through a curling free-kick - and then by dragging an easy header wide. Interspersed between those attempts was another header against the bar from Landry Dimata, who had the entire frame to aim at.

On another day, this game might have ended in a 2-1 or 3-1 victory for the Periquitos, who'd be kicking themselves for their wastefulness. It was a real let-off for Barcelona.

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#2 Mingueza shows why Dani Alves should start at right-back

Mingueza isn't consistent enough to start for Barcelona.

Oscar Mingueza has largely polarised opinions among Barcelona fans since he burst onto the scene last year. On Saturday against Espanyol, he provided another reminder that he shouldn't be starting regularly.

The 22-year-old was caught out of position on far too many occasions, and looked sloppy, both on and off the ball. De Tomas held him off easily at times while trying to control incoming crosses.

It hasn't been a good season for the Spanish youngster, who's been found wanting in many of Barcelona's defeats this season. Considering the same, Dani Alves' return cannot come soon enough.

At 38, Alves is not expected to start every game. But the Brazilian would still be a reliable figure in the big games, considering his experience and leadership qualities.

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#1 Xavi still has plenty of work to do

Xavi has a lot of work to do.

There were a lot of positives to draw from the game. But Xavi still has plenty of work to do, as exemplified by Barcelona's performance in the final quarter of the match.

The defence is shaky and still prone to mistakes, while Depay needs wingers to support him up front. Akhomach and Gavi are both good, but they're too young and inexperienced to start regularly.

Barcelona needed a penalty to beat the promoted side at home. That was despite the Blaugrana keeping nearly twice as much possession, completing twice as many passes and mustering thrice as many shots on target than Espanyol.

It's still early days, so Xavi will have plenty of time to revive the squad from the mess they are in.