If there is an area of the field where FC Barcelona seems a bit 'overstocked' in terms of quantity and quality of its players, it is the defense. Currently, the Culés have no fewer than six defenders in their squad: Pau Cubarsí (17), Eric García (23), Ronald Araújo (25), Jules Koundé (25), Andreas Christensen (28), and Iñigo Martínez (33).
Fortunately, for the German coach, these center-backs, for the most part, have enough versatility to play in other positions, providing a significant number of tactical options. This was evident in Matchday 1 of LaLiga EA Sports 2024/25 against Valencia CF at Mestalla (1-2).
In the match against Valencia, the German coach decided to pair Pau Cubarsí on the right and Iñigo Martínez on the left as the central defenders. Additionally, Jules Koundé played as a right-back. Moreover, in terms of tactical changes, the coach from Baden-Württemberg could bring on Andreas Christensen in the 47th minute for a cautioned Cubarsí, and in the 71st minute, Eric García, showcasing his versatility, replaced Marc Bernal to play as a central midfielder.
This was just a brief introduction to the great 'overbooking' of defenders that FC Barcelona has at its disposal. A position that will be even stronger with the return of Ronald Araújo from his injury in the right thigh hamstring tendon (four months out). This physical setback, by the way, has dispelled any rumors of a big-money sale of the Uruguayan this summer, as his return is expected by the end of 2024.
The only potential victims of the 'overbooking' of defenders at FC Barcelona
At this point, the wealth of talent in the Blaugrana squad in this area of the field is undeniable, to the extent that they can afford to do without two left-footed defenders, something uncommon in the world of football: Clément Lenglet (29 years old) and Mika Faye (20). Two players who are on the transfer list of the Catalan club and whose departure seems increasingly imminent.