FC Barcelona crushed Valencia on Sunday, with a 5-0 success which did not surprise many people. Firstly, because the Ches are showing a very worrying level this season, but also and above all because this Barça is impressing. Since the start of the season already, Hansi Flick’s men have given the impression of being a steamroller, with a fiery attack and 17 goals scored in just 4 matches, i.e. a goal average higher than 4 goals per match.
The absence of a real number 9 is not being felt for the moment, with Raphinha doing well at the forefront of the Catalan attack. The Brazilian is well supported by a very sharp Lamine Yamal and close to his best version, while Anthony Gordon adapted very quickly and is already performing well. Fermin Lopez also seems to have taken a step forward this season and his ability to project himself forward and create danger is impressing everyone in Catalonia.
The press enjoys
But on Sunday, at Mestalla, it was especially on Rodri that all eyes were on. For his debut as a starter – he had so far had to make do with two appearances – the boss of La Roja confirmed that he will bring a lot to Barça. In control tower in front of the defense, he helped secure the defense, then he was the first launching pad for his team, always playing fair and smart. His presence on the pitch also makes it possible to move up the lines and above all to free up a player like Pedri, who can play a little higher up the pitch. “We are delighted that Rodri is part of our team, and we can see that everything he does with the ball, everything he does on the pitch, makes sense”indicated Hansi Flick after the match.
Unsurprisingly, the Catalan press is under the spell. “Rodri, the transfer Barça didn’t know they needed”title for example Mundo Deportivoin a particularly laudatory article, which also highlights the fact that Barça will be able to have a little more control over the matches thanks to him. “Rodri buries the debates in the blink of an eye”explain Sportwho adds that “Rodri can raise the level of the team on the most complicated days, like in the Champions League”. See you in the big Champions League matches!
