Barcelona fans were left disappointed with the performance of star forward Ansu Fati in their 2-1 win over Real Valladolid in LaLiga. The Spanish giants came from behind to defeat the already relegated side to move seven points clear of rivals Real Madrid, having played a game more.
With an eye on the UEFA Champions League semi-final second leg against Inter Milan on Tuesday, Hansi Flick rang the changes for Valladolid. There was a rare start for 22-year-old Ansu Fati, who was one of nine players to come into the starting XI for La Blaugrana.
La Masia graduate turned outcast Fati played for just 45 minutes before he was taken off by Flick with his side trailing. The manager sent Raphinha on in his place, and the Brazilian forward scored his side’s first goal in the game, justifying the manager’s decision.
Barcelona fans understood the decision of the manager to haul off the Spaniard after only a half of football, and took to X to share their thoughts. A fan complained of the manager being unfair to Fati with his substitution.
Another fan disagreed with the above submission, pointing out that Fati receives a great deal of protection from the club.
Another fan provided a justification for Flick’s decision to take off Fati.
A fan expressed their belief in the former boy wonder, pointing out where he needs to improve.
Another fan admitted that Fati’s talent remains, but he needs to find a place to play regularly.
A fan put forward a case for the forward, pointing out some of his qualities.
A fan blamed Fati’s stunted development on Barcelona, pointing out that he did well on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion last season.
Another fan wrote off the forward as being close to the end of his career as a top-level footballer.
Ansu Fati competed 15 passes in his 45 minutes of action, firing one attempt on target, with two attempts going off. He completed 100% of his dribbles and won five of seven ground duels in the first half of the encounter.
Barcelona edged Real Valladolid by a 2-1 scoreline at the Estadio Municipal Jose Zorrilla to go seven points clear atop LaLiga. Hansi Flick’s side came from behind to win against the side that sits in 20th place in the division.
The hosts took the lead against the run of play when Ivan Sanchez found the net for his side just six minutes in. Barcelona were stunned, and Flick quickly turned to his substitutes at the break. The German manager sent on Frenkie De Jong and Raphinha to help calm things ahead of forcing the issue, and they were pleased with the development.
It was Brazil forward Raphinha who drew his side level after a goalkeeping error, scoring in the 64th minute. The turnaround was completed seven minutes later when Fermin Lopez found the bottom corner from the edge of the box.
Barcelona sit seven points clear of Real Madrid, who have played a game less. Los Blancos will face Celta Vigo on Sunday before a blockbuster El Clasico against Barcelona next weekend.
Sulayman has a good feel for the game, which is reflected in his descriptive articles. He double checks information via multiple sources for accuracy, and only uses top-tier platforms like Transfermarkt and Opta for statistical information. His experience and exploits in the industry have led Sulayman to cover the Nigerian Professional League for three years along with games involving the Nigerian national team. He has also worked in F1, joining hands with industry veterans to provide a smooth viewing experience in Nigeria.
Sulayman hails Lionel Messi as the one true GOAT, and his brace in Argentina’s 2005 U20 FIFA World Cup final win over Nigeria left a lasting impact on him. He also supports Chelsea at club level, having followed their dominance under Jose Mourinho. Sulayman also follows other leagues with Nigerian players like Eredivisie, Saudi Pro League, Turkish Super Lig, and more. When not writing, he enjoys cooking and eating.
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