Posted on December 27, 2021 at 11:30 am by Dan Marciano
Xavi's arrival at FC Barcelona was followed by multiple changes within the squad. And the next winter transfer window will be an opportunity for the new coach to make a little more of his mark in Catalonia.
Appointed last March as president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta had been forced to cohabit with Ronald Koeman , appointed by his predecessor Josep Maria Bartomeu . The manager had given his support to the Dutch technician before finally releasing him after a loss to Rayo Vallecano . To try to restart the machine, Joan Laporta decided to call on Xavi . A true emblem of the Blaugrana team, the coach arrived from Qatar to take up the following challenge: handing over FC Barcelona on the right track, relying on young elements mostly from the Masia. The beginnings are delicate for Xavi, eliminated from the Champions League after a defeat against Bayern Munich on December 8 (3-0). The technician identified gaps and asked his president for reinforcements during the next winter transfer window, despite the financial difficulties of the Blaugrana formation. The former Spanish world champion has already seen the arrival of Dani Alves , who will not make his official debut until next January.
The first recruits of the Xavi era arrive
A return validated by Xavi . The Catalan coach agreed and was instrumental in bringing Daniel Alves , now 38, to the stage. The right-back made his debut for FC Barcelona in a meeting against Boca Juniors and received the praises of the technician. “We have seen what he can bring both in defense and in attack. He is able to make the difference in the last pass ”admitted the Spanish coach. The first recruit of the Xavi era, Daniel Alves should be followed by Ferran Torres . The attacking midfielder arrived in Catalonia on Monday morning to undergo his medical check-up and join FC Barcelona . A signing, which should cost the Blaugrana team € 55m. The player, who has so far sported Manchester City , could be presented to the press on Tuesday. But as the Spanish press indicates, Ferran Torres should not be the last winter recruit of FC Barcelona .
The recruitment of a right-back, new priority for Xavi
The recruitment of a center forward seemed to be a priority for FC Barcelona , especially after the announcement of Sergio Agüero . But the Catalan leaders have reportedly decided to change course and focus their research on the position of right-back. Indeed, Sergino Dest could leave La Liga in January, while Daniel Alves will not be able to follow up meetings due to his advanced age. The hottest track leads to Noussair Mazraoui. As indicated by Sport, Xavi appreciates his particularly defensive qualities. Represented by Mino Raiola , the Ajax Amsterdam player could be traded for Sergino Dest according to information from As. In case of complications in this Mazraoui file, FC Barcelona could focus on the transfer of José Luis Gaya. Announced for several months in the Joan Laporta's viewfinder, the right side of FC Valencia sees his contract expire in June 2023. The Spain international would have rejected all the extension offers sent by his leaders and maintains good relations with Barça football director Mateu Alemany . Positive signals for the Catalan club, who would not want to pass up the opportunity. Sport also cites the name of C ésar Azpilicueta (Chelsea) , but the former OM would be far from being a priority for Xavi due in particular to competition from Atlético . The winter transfer window will only open on January 1, but the new FC Barcelona coach has already got to work.