Just when it appeared that Xavi’s predicament at Barcelona could not worsen any further, the situation has taken a turn for the worse. Two significant setbacks have intensified his troubles, hindering the team as they progress into the Round of 16 in the UEFA Champions League. The formidable partnership of Joao Felix and Ferran Torres will be noticeably absent from this crucial match due to unavoidable injuries.
Following disappointing exits from the Copa Del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup, the Champions League was seen as a potential opportunity for Xavi Ball to retrospectively shine in what has proven to be a challenging season. However, these injury developments have added another layer of complexity that could potentially disrupt those aspirations.
According to a recent report by esteemed journalist Marta Ramon Gorina based in Barcelona, it has been confirmed that Joao Felix and Ferran Torres will unfortunately be unavailable for the first leg against Napoli. The Catalan Giants announced two weeks ago that the Portuguese forward had sustained a sprain in his right ankle ligament during training. This injury prevented him from participating in three La Liga matches and will now inevitably result in his absence from another game against Celta Vigo, as well as the Round of 16 first leg in the Champions League.
🚨🎖️| JUST IN: João Felix and Ferran are OUT for the first leg against Napoli. []
— BarçaTimes (@BarcaTimes)
Shortly after this announcement, news emerged of Ferran Torres’ subsequent injury. Allegedly, he sustained damage to his right hamstring biceps femoris muscle, just five minutes into his encounter with Osasuna. Presently, it seems that the Spanish winger has not yet fully recovered and will be absent from upcoming matches.
Regrettably, Xavi’s injury concerns do not stop there. Elsewhere on FC Barcelona’s casualty list, we find Gavi and Alex Balde, who are already ruled out for the season due to a cruciate ligament rupture and thigh injury, respectively. Adding to this existing worry is Sergi Roberto, who is currently in the process of recuperating from an Achilles tendon injury, and Marcos Alonso, nursing a back ailment. Neither player is expected to return before the end of the month.
It is evident that Xavi’s final season with the club is proving to be quite challenging. The combination of injury concerns and the burden of expectations has worsened the situation for him. A conversation the 44-year-old had with acclaimed manager reflects these pressures.
Before officially announcing his intention to sever ties with Barcelona at the conclusion of this season, there was a discussion. Reflecting on their conversation, the Barca legend stated, “I’ve also discussed it with Guardiola. There is immense pressure here. It feels like every day is a matter of life or death.”
Unfortunately, at present, it appears that circumstances are not unfolding favorably for him. Only time will tell what lies ahead for Xavi. What are your thoughts on this? Let us know in the comments.
According to the Source essentiallysports.com