Elche 1-2 Barcelona: 5 Talking Points as Memphis Depay scores late winner | La Liga 2021-22

Memphis celebrates after scoring the winner.
Memphis celebrates after scoring the winner.

#3 Ferran Torres needs to work on his finishing

Ferran Torres celebrates after scoring a goal.
Ferran Torres celebrates after scoring a goal.

Ferran Torres made a massive impact for Barcelona following his introduction. The Spaniard replaced Gavi and changed the course of the game completely. With him on the pitch, Barcelona looked more convincing when advancing higher up the pitch. He brought in more fluidity.

Torres even scored an equalizer for Barcelona in the 60th minute of the game. But one thing that has everyone concerned is his finishing. The 22-year-old missed three big chances in 45 minutes. The fans will be hoping that he can turn this around and maximize his potential.


#2 Ousmane Dembele's situation at Barcelona

Ousmane Dembele in action against Elche.
Ousmane Dembele in action against Elche.

Ousmane Dembele massively fell out of favor with the fans, the board and the coaching staff following his contract renewal fiasco. Xavi insisted, however, that he will not exile the Frenchman and keep using his services provided he is fit to play.

Since the end of the winter transfer window, Dembele has featured for Barcelona six times in all competitions and has managed to grab three assists and one goal to his name. Additionally, the arrival of his former Borussia Dortmund team-mate Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang has instilled new confidence within him. He is showing glimpses of his former self and Barcelona could be tempted to revive those contract extension talks.


#1 Sergio Busquets shines for Barcelona

Sergio Busquets had a solid game.
Sergio Busquets had a solid game.

Sergio Busquets had a solid game against Elche. The veteran once again showed why he is irreplaceable. Busquets won five ground duels, won two ariel duels, made 11 recoveries, created two chances, won two tackles, intercepted the ball thrice and made three blocks throughout the game.

Busquets stepped up for the team when Pedri and Frenkie de Jong dropped stinkers in the center of the park. He orchestrated play for the visitors and controlled the tempo of the game. The Spaniard has hit back at his critics with a solid performance and Xavi will be hoping that he continues performing in the same vein.

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