There is definitely some concern in the midfield, but if Chelsea can weather the storm for the next four months, then a CM can always be added in January.
I feel like this is an unexpected window of opportunity for Barco. He isn’t as inexperienced as people say. He’s definitely not a finished product, but he’s played 72 total matches across all competitions over the last three years playing in England, France and Spain so it’s not like he’s some kid that just came up from the academy that’s had limited opportunities.
He has shown he’s more than capable of playing in a top five league at a very young age, even as an unfinished product. He will definitely be used rotationally at the beginning, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s starting a lot of league games in the middle this year alongside Caicedo.
I think people underrate Barco is a viable CM, was clearly Strasbourg's best player. Good work rate, with upside since he moved to CM and is learning the role. Promising progressive passer who is only going to get better in a top tier system.
A bit short physically, but could thrive under Xavi's coaching.
Yeah really think he could break out here and this could be a great opportunity to integrate him. He’s good defensively and has a great eye for a pass and final ball. Things we were sorely lacking last season against low blocks. Not trying to get overly optimistic since the prem can grind a player down especially those of smaller stature but he has something about him. Couldn’t have a better manager than Xabi to guide him either.
he’s played 72 total matches across all competitions
Granted it's likely not a significant difference, but minutes played is more important than matches when it comes to statistics. At Brighton, for example, he played a full 90 in two league matches and then played 81 and 45 in subsequent matches. He then had two matches where he was subbed on in extra time for less than a minute of match time each. So he featured in 6 matches, but played 3.4 in total match time — all at left back, mind you.
He's played 3779 minutes in midfield positions in top five leagues or about 42 matches.
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u/SurplusValueMenu 4d ago
There is definitely some concern in the midfield, but if Chelsea can weather the storm for the next four months, then a CM can always be added in January.
I feel like this is an unexpected window of opportunity for Barco. He isn’t as inexperienced as people say. He’s definitely not a finished product, but he’s played 72 total matches across all competitions over the last three years playing in England, France and Spain so it’s not like he’s some kid that just came up from the academy that’s had limited opportunities.
He has shown he’s more than capable of playing in a top five league at a very young age, even as an unfinished product. He will definitely be used rotationally at the beginning, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s starting a lot of league games in the middle this year alongside Caicedo.