According to a live broadcast by DirectoGol, Xavi has a very clear idea about his starting lineup for next season, which will feature a bunch of new players. He has informed the board about the position he wants to reinforce, starting with the centre-forward.
Barcelona’s pursuit of Robert Lewandowski has been well-documented in the Spanish and German media at this point, and he is, undoubtedly, Xavi’s top-choice for that position.
The Pole has been head and shoulders above any other striker in Europe for a few seasons running now, especially in terms of the numbers. He will be assisted by Ousmane Dembele in this XI, whose contract renewal has taken an unexpected U-turn.
One of Ansu Fati or Ferran Torres round off the attack on the left-wing. Both players boast of superb off-the-ball movement, with the former an astute finisher as well.
In midfield, the least surprising participant is Pedri, who takes the left spot in the trident. Bernardo Silva is partnering him, presumably in the event that Frenkie de Jong is sold in the summer. Franck Kessie sits as the sole pivot, even though he is not one.
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Xavi’s dream XI will feature a revamped defence, too, with two of the four members of the current starting back-quartet replaced by new acquisitions.
Jordi Alba, Ronald Araujo, and Marc-Andre ter Stegen have seemingly retained their spots for next season as the left-back, right centre-back, and goalkeeper respectively.
Sergino Dest makes way for Chelsea captain Cesar Azpilicueta. The Spaniard’s signing is complicated at the moment, but if it does go through, he may be awarded the starting role due to his experience and defensive mettle.
Finally, Jules Kounde is seen starting over Gerard Pique. The Sevilla centre-back will be a huge signing for the club given their defensive shortcomings, and ideally, complements Araujo player.
While Kessie will arrive on a free transfer, and Azpilicueta on a very minimal fee, the rest of the new signings mentioned in this starting lineup are expected to go through a very long-drawn saga.
That said, should Barcelona be able to actually sign said players, it will make for one brilliant starting lineup.