Xavi explains how he plans to use Joao Felix at Barcelona

Young Cujey September 04, 2023 0

Joao Felix 

Barcelona manager Xavi has admitted he sees new signing Joao Felix splitting his time between playing as a striker and a left winger.

Felix sealed a deadline day loan from Atletico Madrid to Barcelona and came off the bench to make his debut in Sunday's 2-1 victory over Osasuna, joining in an overloaded forward line pressing for Robert Lewandowski's late winner.

With Felix expected to start games soon enough, Xavi admitted he could use the 24-year-old anywhere across his attack.

"I see him both as a striker and on the left wing, and also the right," he told reporterts. "I liked Joao Felix. He has helped. I'd highlight his attitude, which is very important for the team."

Xavi later added: "He is comfortable going from the wing to the inside. He can play as a 9, on the right, but he is less comfortable there. He is versatile, he will give us alternatives and will help us a lot."

Barcelona needed an 85th minute penalty from Lewandowski to secure all three points against Osasuna, and while Xavi was pleased with the result, he admitted the performance left a little to be desired.

"It's a complicated pitch," Xavi reflected. "We lacked the ability to plan, and also patience. We have to generate more in attack.

"We worked hard, but we suffered. We earned it and we have taken three very difficult points. We had moments of dominance, but we also suffered a lot. [Osasuna] had stretches where they didn't stop crossing, dangerous throw-ins... they push a lot, but we got through it.

"We have to improve effectiveness. We have to improve, we have to take a step forward in the game. But the idea is being forged."