Three selection dilemmas for Xavi ahead of Osasuna vs Barcelona – Beragampengetahuan

Following a frantic end to the summer transfer window, Barcelona will look to shift their focus to La Liga.

The defending champions have won two of their first three matches, and are set to take on Osasuna in their next game this evening.

Following the addition of Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo on transfer deadline day, Xavi is bound to find a few selection dilemmas heading into this contest, especially given the fact both Portuguese internationals have been included in the squad.

Here, at Barça Universal, we will take a look at three selection dilemmas for the Barcelona coach ahead of the team’s matchup with Osasuna this evening.

Should Joao Cancelo start at RB?

Early reports suggest Cancelo could be in contention to start against Osasuna heading into this game, just two days after joining the club.

Considering how poorly Sergi Roberto performed against Villarreal, one can be forgiven for forcing Cancelo to start the game at right-back this evening.

However, it must be noted that the Portuguese international was not part of Manchester City’s pre-season campaign and has not featured in a single competition game this season.

Cancelo has been out of action for a while and has featured in one training session with Barcelona. A start, therefore, could be a bit of a stretch.

Barcelona must proceed with a cautious approach with Cancelo, though the right-back is more than likely to feature against Osasuna one way or another.

Lamine Yamal or Raphinha on RW?

Raphinha returns to contention for Barcelona this evening, after being sidelined due to suspension. The former Leeds attacker had picked up a red card in the season opener against Getafe.

Raphinha’s return could be a big boost for Barcelona, who have limited options in the attacking unit, especially following the deadline-day departures of Ansu Fati and Ez Abde.

However, it will be interesting to see whether or not Xavi persists with Lamine Yamal ahead of Raphinha at right wing.

The young Barça speedster has shown immense potential during the first few matches this season and it won’t be surprising to see him retaining his place in the team.

What about Ferran Torres?

Regardless of who starts at right-wing, Gavi appears to be a guaranteed starter on the opposite flank, which in turn, leaves Ferran Torres in an awkward spot.

The former Man City attacker has been in outstanding form in these early parts of the season, having scored two goals in two matches so far.

However, it seems Ferran may once again have to play the role of a super-sub, as Xavi looks to opt for the three-man attacking frontline of Gavi, Robert Lewandowski and Yamal.

Hence, there is a fair chance both Raphinha and Ferran may start on the bench, with a hope to make an impact later on in the proceedings.

Another wild card for Xavi is Joao Felix, who joined the club on transfer deadline day. The Portuguese international has been included in the squad, though he may only feature for a few minutes here or there.