Real Valladolid 3-1 Barcelona: Player Ratings

Barcelona have been underwhelming since wrapping up the league title. If their defeat to Real Sociedad last weekend was not slack enough, they fell to a second successive defeat late on Sunday night to Real Valladolid.

The form does not sit well alongside their title of league champions. Yet, Xavi Hernandez was without some of his star players including Ronald Araujo, Jules Kounde, and Pedri Gonzalez and opted to deploy some fringe players instead.

An Andreas Christensen own goal gave the hosts an early lead on the night before Eric Garcia gifted a second goal through a penalty. A quick counter-attack and Gonzalo Plata’s goal made it three and Robert Lewandowski’s neat finish was the only consolation for the Catalans.

Barça Universal brings you the player ratings from Real Valladolid 3-1 Barcelona.

Marc-Andre Ter Stegen: 5

A rarely uncharacteristic first half for the German who recorded just one save and conceded two goals in 45 minutes. Yet, it would be unfair to blame the shot-stopper for a deflected header and a penalty.

The result takes Ter Stegen to 17 goals conceded this season and endangers his chance to break the all-time La Liga record. He will now have to maintain two clean sheets in the final two games to better the figure. Came off at half-time.

Alejandro Balde: 7

Balde played his 50th game for the club on the night and was one of the few players who showed desire to get forward in the first half. Yet, the numbers show that his contribution over the opening 45 minutes was marginal.

Balde had no defensive actions, crosses or key passes in the first half although he completed 100% of his passes. Was much better after the break and constantly posed a threat to the opposition’s goal.

Marcos Alonso: 6

The Spaniard was a reassuring presence in the back line and did not give Xavi much to worry about. Completed the game with a whopping 15 defensive actions.

Andreas Christensen: 5

The Danish defender got off to a poor start to his night with an own goal in the second minute. He tried to clear the cross-field cross but could only manage to bundle the ball past Ter Stegen.

Recovered well from his early hiccup and regained complete control over the proceedings by the half-hour mark.

Sergi Roberto: 4

Relatively solid but safe showing in 45 minutes with adventurous. Opted for the safest past when given the chance and completed 93% of his passes at Jose Zorila. Taken off at half-time after suffering an injury.

Frenkie de Jong: 7.5

The Dutchman was once again amongst the team’s best players on the night through his clinical passing, opening of channels and work rate. De Jong created a big chance, provided two key passes and completed three accurate long balls in just 45 minutes. Further, he had nine defensive actions in that duration.

Eric Garcia: 3

With Sergio Busquets starting on the bench, Xavi Hernandez deployed Eric Garcia as the pivot on the night. The La Masia graduate was significantly involved in the buildup play and distribution but also conceded the penalty which doubled Real Valladolid’s lead.

His performance deteriorated as the game progressed and he finished the game as one of the team’s most disappointing players on the field.

Gavi: 6

Far from Gavi’s best night on the field, but even the teenager’s half-hearted performance was enough to make him one of the most involved players. Could have done more in the final third, especially given Pedri’s absence.

Pablo Torre: 7

The youngster was simply brilliant against Real Valladolid and at times the only one who was trying to make things happen.

He repeatedly unlocked the hosts’ defence with his incisive passes and was reliable and secure on the ball. After a display with three key passes, a big chance created and two successful dribbles, he was taken off at the hour mark for Ousmane Dembele.

Robert Lewandowski: 6.5

Relatively quiet in the first half except for a header from point-blank range that was saved by Jordi Masip. Slowly involved more in the game after the break.

Scored a late goal from a tight angle to pull one back for the visitors.

Raphinha: 7

The Brazilian started on the right wing and constantly attempted to create chances with menacing crosses. Had four shots on the night including two on target and was unlucky to not get on the scoreboard in the first half. Came off at the hour mark.

Substitutes

Franck Kessie: 5

Safe in his passing but did not create any threat going forward.

Inaki Pena: 4

Was easily beaten at the near post for the third goal. Less than five minutes later, he was beaten again and only the goalpost saved his blushes.

Ousmane Dembele: 4

Very silent after coming on, barely involved in the dynamics.

Ferran Torres: 4

Missed a golden chance in the 66th minute and was sloppy on the ball.

Ansu Fati: NA

Did not contribute much after coming on.