Andres Iniesta can have his moment tonight at the Nou Camp
The beginning of Andrés Iniesta’s season has been irregular and he hasn’t put in the performance that was expected. Accustomed to his class, the fans of the Nou Camp have seen his game has wane a bit.
Spanish newspaper Marca wanted to consult several former players on the reasons why the midfielder is not offering his best and there are several interpretations, but mostly it has to do with riding the crest of the wave that he’s been living until now which is always difficult to maintain.
The arrival of Neymar along with Martino’s squad rotations are other arguments that would serve to explain Iniesta’s little involvement in the game. Keep in mind that Andres Iniesta has not missed a Classico since last April 26th, 2011. Guardiola decided not to play him in the first leg of the semifinals of the Champions League at the Bernabeu. Since then he has played in every game against Real Madrid.
Pichi Alonso is one of Barca’s former players who believe that today’s game may be suitable for the resurgence of Iniesta. “I would always field him even if it is wrong to do so. Much is said about his fitness but you cannot always be at a level of excellence as he has been.
Ferrer made reference to the large number of games played, adding those of FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team: “This kid plays 80 games a year, he’s a very good player but cannot always have the same freshness,” he said.
Former agent Jose Maria Minguella believes that the arrival of Neymar is one of the reasons that affects Iniesta’s game: “He’s not on song and perhaps it’s a tactical issue, as Neymar does not leave him the same space as he had before.”
Marcos Alonso added another aspect to the causes of the poor performances of the player at the start of this season. The former player and current coach notes that “no single player wins games. There are players who do not fit in well with the rotations and one example is Andres Iniesta. I think it’s too soon to make so many rotations.”
Quique Estebaranz also gave his opinion: “I also wonder what’s happening. He always has a great impact on the game and he might be missing something. It can’t last forever and it’s like Xavi, who is not having too much f a starring role.”
The down side of his game is luck of goals. Now that his passing is not as good, I would bench him. Barca need more players with potencial to score to help Messi.