IN SPORT.ES
Either Ferran Torres or Ez Abde. It seems that one of the crossroads for next season is on the left side of Barcelona's attack. Ferran, who has had some offers to leave on loan but is determined to try to succeed at Barça, wants to take a step forward, aware that he has not had a good season.
Abde is coming off the back of a year at Osasuna. Under the guidance of Jagoba Arrasate, the former Hercules man has grown and matured. And if we add to that the cherry on top in the form of winning the U23 African Cup of Nations, his value has increased even more (€15 million right now according to 'Transfermarkt').
Xavi did not hesitate to take the Morocco winger on the tour of the United States. He is aware that there are some lucrative offers for him and that the club needs to make money, but he also knows that if Abde leaves, it will most likely not be to come back.
Abde, durante el entrenamiento del Barça
| DANI BARBEITOAnd there are doubts about losing a talent of that magnitude. That's why we can't rule out either scenario: which is better for Barça for that side of the attack, Ferran or Abde?
Let's look at the pros and cons. The Moroccan is more unpredictable, he's more of an overflowing player and has that point of rebelliousness or even 'impertinence'. That has a very good side, but also that constant risk of ball losses that can lead to quick transitions for the opposition.
Ferran Torres, Gavi, Ansu Fati y Raphinha celebran un gol frente al Viktoria Plzen
| Valentí EnrichFerran is a more stable footballer. A hard worker, he can play on the inside, he also plays well on the right. He will probably provide more versatility and more alternatives upfront. He has less ability one on one, though. And, as he finished last season, less self-confidence at that moment -- although that can change if he can take that step forward.
Key tour
These matches on the tour of the United States may shed some light on Xavi's preferences. In terms of minutes, position, intentions. We will see what role he gives to Abde, if he thinks he can adapt to the idea he has in his head.
Maybe if he thinks he's going to go more for the 3-5-2 or 4-4-2, Abde makes less sense. And watch out for the Joâo Félix factor, of course...