Always alert, he anticipates and springs into action even without heavy defensive duties. He charges out fearlessly, sometimes retreating forty metres from his goal to snuff out Villa attacks, and even unleashed a shot from Mazambi.
He moved confidently, covering spaces without overcomplicating things. Constantly watching Lamine, he linked up with Rodri, Pedri and Cubarsí whenever he received the ball.
With the ball he imposed himself, winning most duels. Only a mistimed block against Jackson and a one‑on‑one with Mazambi went wrong before the break, but Joan Garcia quickly fixed it.
Back in the starting XI, he looked solid and decisive. In my view, his poise steadied a high‑tempo, nonstop match.
During possession he misplaced a couple of passes, yet created several chances in attack. Two of his crosses found the re‑emerged Grada d’Animació.
He serves as a versatile option when Barça controls the ball, offering teammates a reliable outlet. A clean roulette move delighted the crowd.
Emery tried to keep him tight, but the Canary found pockets to influence the team’s flow. In transition phases he attempted to calm the rhythm with his touch.
He absorbed most challenges in the first half, even leaving with a bloody nose. Nevertheless, his usual spark in front of goal was missing.
He capitalised on Villa’s giveaway after a strong Barça press. Receiving the ball in the box, he cut inside and slotted home – a vital goal that steadied the side.
His pressure lifts the squad, setting a defensive example. Yet his control lacked the precision needed when left alone with the keeper.
His second tally came after another Barça press and a Suzuki spill. The strike from inside the area was soft, almost innocent. Can he replicate that calm finish in the second half?