The clues that Xavi left in Mallorca for the Barca XI vs Inter
The line up during the 1-0 win lets us look at his thinking ahead of the visit to Milan
Barcelona’s triumph at Son Moix was the first game of their tough run up to the Qatar World Cup. 12 games in just a few weeks. The team’s injuries prevented Xavi from rotating too much. Now he has to plan for the clash with Inter Milan on Tuesday night.
He’ll line up with Ter Stegen between the sticks, against Mallorca he was at his best again, beating his own domestic record for goals not conceded.
The defence could see Eric Garcia and Marcos Alonso come in, while Sergi Roberto may be chosen at right back, with Andreas Christensen the only surviving member of Saturday’s backline.
Sergio Busquets and Gavi will start with Pedri in midfield, the latter of whom was rested for the first hour or so against Mallorca.
In attack, there is more debate. Robert Lewandowski has been accompanied by Raphinha and Ousmane Dembele in big games so far. With Memphis injured, Ansu Fati and Ferran Torres are the other options. Ansu started against Mallorca, so he’s more likely to be used on the bench. Ferran came on for the final 15 minutes and will be fresh…
