Going into the World Cup in Qatar last week with the semi-finals and finals underway, Barcelona are getting back to normal with the stunning arrival and goals of the internationals in the December 31 derby against Espanyol at the Camp Nou. There are some technical and sporting decisions that cannot be postponed and Xavi will have to provide solutions. Many suitable names on the bench: Lewandowski, Araujo, Conde, Marcos Alonso, Memphis
Ronald Araujo continues to make progress recovering from a right quadriceps twitch from his adductor longus tendon. Xavi will have to assess his physical condition and whether or not he can arrive for the match against Espanyol after not playing for Uruguay in Qatar. Araujo, who underwent surgery on September 28, practiced at a slower pace than his teammates, but showed good vibes
Memphis Depay’s contract expires at the end of the season and although there are problems with financial fair play, FC Barcelona no longer considers it necessary to keep their icon to carry out other operations. Jordi Cruyff has already warned that Barcelona will not be able to count on Lewandowski, who is suspended for three matches. Xavi will have to decide what role to play from now on or if he can do without his services. Roma interested the Dutchman. As well as Juventus, Arsenal or Galatasaray
Conde played a large part of the World Cup in Qatar playing as a right back for the France national team. Given the difficulty of signing in this winter market to cover Bellerín and Sergi Roberto Carnicer, Xavi must decide whether to give him continuity or continue his position in the center of defense as he expresses himself better
If the UEFA appeals committee does not address the matter, Barcelona will be left without Lewandowski due to a three-match ban for his controversial gesture to referee Gil Manzano. Xavi will have to find a replacement for him and there are several options. Like Ferran Torres or Ansu Fati. The two of them had already occupied the position and had reached more comfort. and even Memphis
With France in the World Cup semi-finals, Conde and Dembele will be in Qatar until December 18th or 19th. Then they will have a few days off and Xavi will have to decide whether to arrive in time for the derby against Espanyol at 31 d
From signing Conde as a right-back or recycling Conde, Xavi will have to manage the left-back arrangement. Alba and Baldi were in the World Cup in Qatar because of their good performances and either of them can start. Meanwhile, Marcos Alonso has been in the central position in recent LaLiga matches and could continue
