A new project, the usual captains at Can Barcelona

Despite the voices that have demanded a renewal of the old guard, Xavi has embraced the four veterans, who will continue next season.

The situation

In her speech to congratulate all the culés on the New Year, Joan Laporta announced this past December 31 “a new stage that no longer prolongs the degradation of a glorious era”. Barcelona is clear that it is building a new identity. It is the post-Messi stage. And he has already begun to lay some bricks with the signing of Ferran, the renewals of young talents such as Araujo, Pedri, Ansu, which will soon be followed by Gavi’s. Strategic sales are also considered, such as that of Frenkie de Jong. What does not move are the captains. Except for surprise, Sergi Busquets (33 years old), Gerard Piqué (35), Jordi Alba (33) and Sergi Roberto (30) will continue to wear the Barça armband next season. And the matter generates debate . For some, the photo does not move and the four have shown in the great European nights of recent years that the super elite games go over them. For others, its performance continues to be more than optimal. Xavi seems to agree with this last trend. Without Piqué (contract until 2024), even though he can no longer throw the line so far forward, the defense suffers. Busquets, with a contract until 2023, continues to be a clock at Barcelona and the National Team if the team plays in order. Without Busquets, Barcelona strips naked. And Jordi Alba (contract until 2024) has no less than 12 assists this season, in addition to three goals , the last one that certified the pass to the Champions League. No side of LaLiga has those numbers. Sergi Roberto’s case is different. With no offers, and battered by injuries, he will continue for a year for services rendered. He has always behaved in a very professional manner.

The important details

It is not necessary to insist on the ties that unite Xavi with his captains. He is a personal friend of Busquets, who acts almost as an extension in the field of the player with the second most appearances in history. No one likes Badia to understand what his coach wants on the pitch. With Sergio, as with Pique, Xavi experienced the best years in the club’s history. The coach is also grateful because everyone made themselves available to him when he arrived and they have helped him when it comes to conveying his message in the locker room. Xavi highly values ​​the commitment of the four.