What could Dani Alves bring Barcelona if he signs now?

Would Dani Alves fit in at Barça now? That’s the question being asked after he told SPORT that he was open to returning at 38 years of age. Here we analyse the possibility.

COMPETE AT THE TOP LEVEL

Dani would not come to Barca to retire. He needs to show Tite that he can compete at the top level to play in the 2022 World Cup for Brazil. He is hugely self-demanding. His winning spirit and experience in building great teams would suit Barcelona really well.

A TUTOR FOR MASIA CRACKS

Alves with Brazil at the Olympics and at Sao Paulo, has proven a good leader for younger players. Back in the day he helped Neymar Jr bed in at Barcelona too. He is a tutor who demands a lot and at the same time, protects. He also has great knowledge of La Masia and a young spirit who can inject morale into the group.

TEACHER FOR DEST AND MINGUEZA

As Ferran Correas wrote in Sport, there are voices inside the club that say Alves could block Dest and Mingueza’s progression.

However, one of their problems is a lack of a reference point in the position. The best ever Barcelona right back is Dani Alves. He can show them how to do the job. The likes of Nelson Semedo came and left without anyone there to explain them the role properly.

THE ECONOMIC REALITY

Alves is a free agent, looking for a short contract for sporting, not financial reasons. The Brazilian will adapt to Barca’s needs and won’t demand a lot. The opposite of the senior players with bigger contracts at the club than their current levels of ability.

DAVIDS FACTOR

Look back to Frank Rijkaard’s era when Edgar Davids arrived in 2004 at 30 years old. Ronaldinho Gaucho was the star at that time. His arrival helped start a good cycle for the team who won the next two leagues and the Champions League, with Juliano Belletti’s goal. For his charisma, love of the club, and good vibes he brings on and off the pitch, Dani Alves can help the team get through this complex season.

MOTORBIKE

Alves was key even at 38 in the Olympics victory. He played 95 games in two years there. That shows he can play two times a week if needed. He would also help the squad rest more and rotate.