4. Midfield
Halilovic and Rakitic have arrived at Barcelona, while Fabregas traveled back to London on the blue bus (Chelsea). Proper moves in my opinion. Fabregas never adapted to his hometown’s system. Statistically, Fabregas performed decently. But we can all see he never expressed comfort on the field. Although much of the blame can go to managers playing him in false 9, right-winger, left-winger, and not his appropriate attacking midfield, Fabregas had to make room for Rakitic.
We have yet to see if Rakitic will fit in the system. The direct football he provided at Sevilla should give a different dimension to Barcelona’s indirect style. The Blaugranas must add penetrative passes in the final third.
Halilovic was exceptional in the friendly against Recreativo this past weekend. He was not afraid to dribble against the opposition, and the young Croatian threatened the goal constantly. Despite being 18 and signing for Barcelona B, Enrique will surely promote him sooner than later. Halilovic is an exciting prospect for the Catalans.
Lastly, Rafinha has returned from Celta de Vigo. Talented and young, Rafinha is another type of midfielder that Barcelona can utilize. He is versatile, which means he can play in multiple positions if needed. Enrique managed Rafinha at Celta de Vigo and Barcelona B, so he knows his player quite well. Rafinha can be a surprise in Copa del Rey and La Liga matches.
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