Barcelona 3-1 Valencia: 5 hits and flops as Ansu Fati stars in Sergio Aguero's highly anticipated club debut | La Liga 2021-22

Hit: Jordi Alba (Barcelona)

Alba came up trumps defensively for Barcelona.

Another player who returned to the fold after some time was Jordi Alba, who played his first game for Barcelona since August. He faced upto a month out with a muscle injury, and now on his return, produced a bright performance, especially in defence.

Alba fought hard to contain Valencia's attacks down the left flank and cut out their crosses, showing excellent awareness and vision.

He also made four ball recoveries and clearances apiece, making sure everything was tidy at the back for Barcelona. Given the marauding left-back he is, the Spaniard made a subtle impact offensively, but truly stood out for his team in defence on the night.

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Flop: Dimitri Foulquier (Valencia)

An atrocious performance in defence by Foulquier

The Bats were a good side on the night, but Dimitri Foulquier was a weak link in defence. The Frenchman failed to get a handle on either Jordi Alba or Ansu Fati, and was tormented all night long.

He won only three of his seven ground duels and lost possession a total of 14 times in the game, highlighting his frailty on the ball. Struggling to keep up with Barcelona's marauding attackers, he often resorted to using excessive physical force ,and got aggressive at times. The 28-year-old was lucky not to have been sent off.

A right-back by trade, the former Granada man offered no great shakes offensively either. He failed to make a single accurate cross, and also misplaced several of his passes.

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Hit: Memphis Depay (Barcelona)

Depay continues to show his worth to Barcelona.

Memphis Depay impressed as Barcelona's lone striker on the night. He got an assist for Fati's goal and then clinically dispatched a penalty which put his side in front for the first time in the match.

The in-form Dutchman was a menace to Los Che, running forward with purpose. He completed six of his eight dribbles as the visitors were sick at the sight of him.

Depay's assist for Fati showed how amazing he is in linking up plays. He made no mistake from the spot for his 13th consecutive penalty for club and country.

The 27-year-old has been seriously good for the Blaugrana since making his debut around two months ago. At this rate, he could be a key player for them.