FC Barcelona v Frankfurt Match Review (2-3): Xavi’s Squad Breakdown and Knocked Out Of Europa League

The Barca Breakdown discussed the breakdown of Xavi's squads in the second leg against Frankfurt at the Camp Nou. Another big match in Europe where Barca were knocked out of the Europa League in a terrible performance. First and foremost, we think Xavi deployed a less than ideal starting XI with Minguza as RB and Gavi in for Frenkie De Jong. Even though we consider Aubameyang and Ferran Torres as regular starters, we believe after such poor performances from the duo that Xavi needed to try a different line-up. Despite what we thought, Barca came out in the first few minutes with an absurd foul from Eric Garcia. 3 minutes into the game and Frankfurt had gotten a penalty. Kostic converted to take the game to a 0-1 lead. Frankfurt continued to play aggressively, shutting down Barca's midfield and nurturing the wings. The mayhem did not cease as a screaming shot from Borre slammed into the back of the net taking them 0-2. The half ends and Barca leave the pitch defeated. 

 

The second half begins and Xavi makes 1 change by taking out Pedri, due to injury, and putting in FDJ. Things continue to look grim as Barca can't create almost any shots on goal and the chances that are created fall flat. In the 67' Kostic was able to shoot from the left side and scored in the right corner. Frankfurt's 0-3 lead practically sealed the game. However, deep into the second half (90+1') Segio Busquets put away a goal. Barca did not let up there, with Memphis Depay, who came in for Torres, was able to convert a penalty which was drawn by Luuk De Jong. Barca are able to get 2 goals, but FT is called and Barca are officially out of all major European competitions. 

 

Barca fans all around the world are left in shock as Barca cannot seem to compete in European competitions. Where does that leave us? Well, FC Barcelona are second in La Liga and still trail behind Real MAdrid by 12 points. Barca face off against Cadiz this coming Monday at the Camp Nou. Can Xavi compete for the La Liga title?