Xavi’s Three Key Players for 2023/24 Season
2 min read
As the 2023/24 season kicks off, Barcelona fans are witnessing a new era under the guidance of their legendary midfielder turned manager, Xavi Hernandez. With a revamped squad and fresh faces in the summer transfer window, Xavi’s vision for Barcelona is becoming clearer with each passing match.
The departure of stalwarts like Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Ousmane Dembele signaled the winds of change sweeping through the Camp Nou. In their place, notable arrivals such as Ilkay Gundogan, Oriol Romeu, Inigo Martinez, Joao Cancelo, and Joao Felix have joined the Catalan giants. Barcelona’s performance this season has been promising, with three wins following an opening-day draw against Getafe.
What is most striking is Xavi’s clear plan to build his project around a core group of players, reminiscent of his playing days. According to Mundo Deportivo, there are three “untouchables” in Xavi’s team who have featured in every minute of every match – Marc-Andre ter Stegen, Jules Kounde, and Frenkie de Jong.
Ter Stegen, Barcelona’s rock between the posts, continues to impress with his consistent performances, even earning the prestigious Zamora Trophy for the most clean sheets in previous seasons. Jules Kounde’s transition to his preferred center-back position has yielded dividends, including a memorable goal against Osasuna. Frenkie de Jong, often hailed as La Liga’s finest midfielder this season, has been delivering stellar performances in the heart of Barcelona’s midfield.
While these three players are the “untouchables,” Robert Lewandowski has also been a regular starter, with only one substitution to his name. The new signings, Oriol Romeu and Ilkay Gundogan, have made an immediate impact, starting all matches, albeit with some substitutions. Andreas Christensen has followed suit, starting each game but also seeing the bench.
Young talents like Lamine Yamal and Gavi have been handed opportunities, featuring in all four games, but starting only three. As Xavi’s project takes shape, these players, both experienced and budding stars, are all crucial pieces of the puzzle as Barcelona strives to regain its dominance in the footballing world.
