It’s obvious that Barcelona have lost the clarity in structure and identity that Xavi introduced so brilliantly when he first arrived.

I’m not saying Frenkie de Jong is the problem but he’s the clearest symptom.

De Jong was incredible last night, and what he brings in his - technique, dynamism, explosiveness is massive. He’s an elite player and an intuitive one, who given enough freedom can control a game.

However, he is *not* a consistent match winner. He doesn’t affect the final third often enough to be given *unlimited* freedom. He’s not Messi.

I’ve been asked several times now about this thread.

So, as someone who has studied Xavi’s Barca relentlessly this season, I thought I’d give a few thoughts.

https://twitter.com/nonewthing/status/1648406490221367300

Firstly I appreciate the work and research that has gone into this. NNT paints an accurate picture of Xavi’s philosophy and how it has influenced his team.

To break it down, I agree with all three of the main assertions:

Barcelona crash out of the #UEL in shocking fashion at the hands of Eintracht Frankfurt.

But what exactly went wrong?

Wrong system? No intensity? A lack of quality?

Forget the reactionary takes, here’s a full tactical analysis. ✍️#PuristThread SAME SHAPE, SAME RESULTS

Both teams set up with exactly the same shape as the first leg.

Frankfurt cut off Barca’s passing lanes to the midfielders. The ball went back and forth across the defence. Then eventually out to the wingers.