Argentina captured the World Cup, Messi at the helm, with celebrations rolling through the streets of Buenos Aires. Barcelona finished the season strong, reclaiming some spotlight as preparations ramp up for the Santa Cruz derby against Espanyol at the Camp Nou on December 31. In a Barça TV interview, Xavi reflected on the club’s evolution, noting that a younger generation has already surpassed the early potential once seen in Gavi and Pedri, while the essential Barça style remains central to the team’s identity. Source: Barça TV reports
“Andrés Iniesta and I were only 18 and 20 when we started, yet the standard we now see from Gavi and Pedri is higher than ours then,” a club statement on social media echoed on December 20, 2022. Source: FC Barcelona official posts
The winter transfer window is not expected to bring major arrivals. Barça remains within the league’s fair-play salary limits, and Xavi indicated it is unclear whether new signings will occur. The current squad has been described as a “great template” that provides enough quality to compete for titles while leading the league. Source: Barça press remarks
Even with Piqué’s departure, strengthening the defense is not seen as an immediate trigger. Xavi highlighted options for Marcos Alonso or Frenkie de Jong to adapt as cover, emphasizing the difficulty of acquiring new players during this winter window. Source: Barça press remarks
“I told Mateu Alemany not to push too hard. I am very happy with the squad, and we are a family. It remains uncertain whether new signings can be made due to fair-play constraints, but I’m very pleased with what I have,” read an official Barcelona post from December 20, 2022. Source: Barça social feed
“I told Mateu not to push too hard; I’m happy with the team. I’m very happy if we don’t pursue anything new.”
In follow-up notes, Mateu Alemany’s role as football director surfaced, with the coach stressing there were no heavy demands. The emphasis stayed on balance and a calm leadership approach as the team chases success. The coach asserted that the playing model could adapt, keeping formation and approach flexible. Source: Barça communications
There is space for tactical experimentation, from a 4-3-3 to a 4-4-2 with Di María on the right, and even a three-central-back setup when needed—a nod to the versatility shown by champions across eras. The aim is to keep options open as the team navigates competing priorities, much like the adjustments seen in world champions Argentina. End-game scenarios, including a 3-3 finish with Di María on the left, illustrate the pragmatic mindset behind the plan. Source: Xavi’s strategic notes
Plan B and Plan C Around a Core Concept
“The goal is not to lose. That mindset built our strength,” Xavi said, recalling the club’s trophy-laden history. He acknowledged doubts about the current model while stressing the need for renewed dedication. The focus remains on preserving a clear identity even as the season evolves. Source: Xavi interview excerpts
“Ousmane is a special player; this season he has five goals and seven assists. There is no other player like him. The focus is on how we want to play, how we face opponents, and the one-on-one battles that define our approach,” the coach noted. The staff also highlighted contingency plans. The World Cup experience left a mark, underscoring balance and resilience. The French forward’s contributions are recognized, and discussions continue on how best to maximize his impact. Source: team discussions
“Winning this league will bring stability to the club and to the broader sports project.” An official Barcelona post from December 20, 2022 reinforced the message. Source: Barça social channels
Xavi added that Dembélé’s intensity matters, and decisions on the pitch should reflect a refined sense of when to press and when to pull back. The emphasis is on guiding his choices in each match to maintain the team’s rhythm. Source: coaching briefings
Ansu Fati’s Return to Prominence
A clear plan places Ansu Fati in a more prominent role. Pedri and Gavi set the tone, and the coach believes Ansu could step into a leadership space soon. The aim is to rely on Ansu’s goal-scoring potential to spark matches and sustain results in the remaining six months. With Lewandowski suspended, the responsibility to score falls more on the young forward. Source: team projections
Regarding Balde, the coach remains confident that the winger represents Barça’s future, praising his youthful energy and potential while stressing the squad must pursue titles with renewed vigor. The broader plan continues toward league supremacy and strong showings in European competition when circumstances permit. Source: management updates
In sum, Barcelona stays rooted in its core identity while remaining adaptable and focused on sustained success across competitions. The coaching staff emphasizes balance, team spirit, and a pragmatic approach to personnel and tactics as the club navigates a demanding schedule.