Dani Alves’ debut numbers surprise Barcelona; Dest to face serious competition

Playing the Copa del Rey is special. Playing away to a third division side who are always going to cherish the chance is also special. Winning and progressing is quite special as well.

But none of it matches watching 38-year-old Dani Alves return to Barcelona and dropping a masterclass on his ‘re-debut’.

Starting on the right, Alves acted as a full-back in the first-half, and a wing-back in the second. While his role changed ever so slightly, his performance was class, as per.

Through the game, he created a mammoth seven chances – at least three more than anyone else -, including two big chances. Further, he completed all three of his dribbles and won three free-kicks.

Despite playing quite high up, Alves was solid defensively, making a clearance and winning three tackles. He was dribbled past once all game and only conceded one foul.

Dani Alves in his official debut for Barça:

– 90 minutes played
– 96 touches
– 88.3% pass accuracy
– 7 key passes
– 7 crosses completed
– 5 accurate long balls
– 2 big chances created
– 3 dribbles pic.twitter.com/iWzAsJSLZ0

— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) January 5, 2022

Sergino Dest is set to make his return from injury later this month and is set to face some stiff competition from the Barcelona legend. With rumours about his transfer making the rounds already, old man Alves could become another nail in his coffin.

Stats via Opta