Barcelona captain’s World Cup place under threat, Xavi unimpressed with performances

A recent report from Diario AS has offered a detailed update on Barcelona’s situation in the left-back position.

The report sheds light on the woes of Jordi Alba, in particular, emphasising his recent loss of form. The veteran fullback is yet to even start in Barça’s last two matches, with Alejandro Balde getting the nod ahead of him so far.

It appears Xavi is not happy with the performances of Alba. The Barcelona coach was particularly furious with the left-back’s game against Rayo Vallecano, as he made a few tactical errors and was unable to offer creativity in the final third.

It compelled him to start with Balde, who was coming on the back of an excellent pre-season and is now ahead of Alba in the pecking order, having already started the last two matches.

Alba’s lack of performance and game-time could be devastating for the player, as far as his chances of being selected for the Spanish team is concerned, especially ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Spain coach Luis Enrique is expected to choose his team purely on the basis of merit rather than experience. And even though the master tactician has managed Alba in the past, the Barcelona veteran is not expected to gain any favours.

To make things worse for Alba, Barcelona are working towards the transfer of Marco Alonso. The Chelsea fullback is likely to join the camp before the end of the month, as part of Xavi’s plan to reinforce the left-back unit.

Although Alonso’s potential arrival is not expected to impact Balde’s apparent route to prominence, it could certainly affect Alba’s stature in the first team.

Hence, the Spaniard must get back to his old self sooner rather than later, if he is to avoid a rather underwhelming end to a glittering career.