Barcelona points in a tough draw with Mallorca last night, and a number of players failed to cover themselves in glory.
Xavi’s side were sloppy at the back as they found themselves 2-1 down for the second game in a row, and midfielder Oriol Romeu was particularly poor.
The 32-year-old was poor defensively, with his lack of mobility exposed for Mallorca’s second goal, whilst he also did not offer enough protection to the back four.
AS have now reported that Romeu’s position in the team is now in doubt, with Xavi concerned about his contribution at the back. The midfielder joined from Girona this summer, with Xavi’s preferred option Martin Zubimendi unaffordable for Barcelona.
With Frenkie De Jong and Pedri currently injured, it remains to be seen how Barcelona can function without Romeu, who was signed to replace Sergio Busquets.
Xavi is said to be frustrated with Romeu’s carelessness on the ball, with the Spaniard losing possession seven times against Mallorca, and he could now be dropped.
Are Barcelona better without Romeu?
Remarkably, Barcelona have only been in winning positions twice all season whilst Romeu has been on the pitch.
They were in losing positions against Villarreal, Celta Vigo and Mallorca before he was substituted, and came back to win or draw all three games.
Whilst it would be harsh to blame Romeu when the team is struggling, it does highlight an issue with him in the side. If he is not offering enough protection to the defence, then there is little use for him in the Busquets role.
Barcelona may be better off with Ilkay Gundogan as the deepest midfielder, with Gavi and Joao Felix as the supporting cast in the middle in some games, and if Xavi loses patience with Romeu, then it does not bode well for the veteran’s prospects at Barcelona beyond this season.