FC Barcelona has returned to their tried and true 4-3-3 formation with Pedro and Lionel Messi flanking David Villa and Sergio Busquets playing a defensive midfield role, signaling a return to order in the universe. The Blaugranas started the match in a 3-5-2 formation that featured Busquets in defense, but with Pedro replacing Javier Mascherano, all things are back to normal for Barcelona. Yet again, Mascherano did not look his best. Amazingly, despite coming to the club in the summer, he is yet to settle in and adapt to Barcelona’s style of play.
Valencia CF Vs. FC Barcelona: Pedro Replaces Javier Mascherano, Order Is Restored To The Universe
Pedro got a nice little rest to start the match, but with only 30 minutes to go, the Spaniard will be able to go full speed the rest of the way. This should present a serious danger for the tired legs of the Valencia defense, who were having enough trouble with Messi as is.
As an additional note, Adriano and Daniel Alves don’t seem to be any more defensive minded than they did when Barcelona was playing 3-5-2, so indirectly, the substitution and formation change is just a forward for a central defender. Barcelona’s title chances will hardly be damaged by a draw at the Mestalla, but Pep Guardiola is still going after the win.
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