The numbers which reveal why Ansu Fati should play for Barça

The decision to bring Ansu Fati on against Athletic was the right one. The youngster, along with Riqui Puig, changed the game. After a first half to forget, the two youngsters delivered pace to the game and more depth in the final third. While Riqui Puig chipped away in the middle, Ansu tried to break down the Basque defence from the left. 

Ansu, 17, ended the game with better statistics than some of his teammates who started the game and presenting his candidacy for a starting berth against Celta on Saturday. In his 25 minutes on the pitch, he not only caused problems with his pace, but was also involved in some of Barça's most dangerous moments, save Ivan Rakitic's winning goal. He set up Lionel Messi to fire just wide, headed over and hit the post. 

He not only connected well with Messi, but also with Jordi Alba on the left. He made 11 passes and all found their target. And during this time he had two shots, as mentioned. He touched the ball 22 times while he was on the pitch and attempted four dribbles, although only one came off this team. 

If these were the numbers of Ansu Fati, what does it say about his teammates? With the exception of Messi, who led Barça once again, the rest of the attackers were discrete to say the least:

LUIS SUÁREZ:

• Minutes played: 85
• Shots on goal: 3
• Passes: 23
• Failed passes: 10
• Fouls received: 1

ANTOINE GRIEZMANN

• Minutes played: 65
• Shots on goal: 1
• Passes: 35
• Failed passes: 11
• Fouls received: 3

BRAITHWAITE:

• Minutes: 5
• Passes: 7
• Failed passes: 2

Now we will see if Quique Setien shows confidence in him again for Saturday's trip to Celta Vigo when Barça must win as they continue to compete with Real Madrid for the league title.