LaLiga 2019/20, Granada 2-0 Barcelona: 5 Hits and Flops

Barcelona's surprise 2-0 away defeat by Granada confines them to their worst top-flight start for 25 years
Barcelona's surprise 2-0 away defeat by Granada confines them to their worst top-flight start for 25 years

#2 Hit: Yangel Herrera

Herrera was excellent as Granada earned a shock but deserved win against an underwhelming Barca
Herrera was excellent as Granada earned a shock but deserved win against an underwhelming Barca

An all-action midfield display was on show from the young Venezuela international, currently on-loan from Manchester City. Yes, you read that correctly. The 21-year-old relished the challenge coming up against Barcelona's midfield three - which mixes technical quality with energy and industry, starting alongside Ángel Montoro in Granada's 4-2-3-1 formation.

While his experienced Spanish teammate relinquished possession cheaply while struggling to physically impose himself, there was no such issue for Herrera on this occasion.

He completed four tackles, four interceptions, two blocks and a clearance while winning eight of his 14 duels contested against the league's best side. The only blemish on his performance was a booking early in the second-half for a not-so-subtle bodycheck on Messi before being replaced by a fresh Maxime Gonalons (on-loan from Roma) with seven minutes plus stoppages to play.

Unlikely to ever feature for City given their ridiculous midfield depth, it was nonetheless a refreshing display from a youngster who has settled well to Spain's top-flight in 2019.

Quick Links