It was the first real test for the new boss Quique Setien since replacing Ernesto Valverde as the new Barcelona head coach. The league leaders travelled to Valencia this afternoon to lock horns with Albert Celades’ men. It was a tricky contest considering the hosts’ impressive home run and the Catalans were outplayed completely at Mestalla which eventually resulted in a shambolic 2-0 defeat despite dominating possession.
Below are the Barcelona players rated in their disastrous defeat against Los Ches.
Marc-Andre ter Stegan: 7.5
A busy outing for the German custodian as he kept the Blaugrana in contention by denying Maximiliano Gómez from the spot. He kept on making key saves throughout the first half and must find himself unfortunate while conceding from a Gomez strike that took a wicked deflection of Jordi Alba. Could have done little late in the game when Gomez doubled the lead from a perfect counter-attack.
Sergi Roberto: 5
An afternoon to forget for the Spaniard as he struggled defensively against the likes of Carlos Soler and Jose Gaya. Should have done a lot better in blocking Gaya who skipped past him easily before being brought down by Pique inside the box.
Gerard Pique: 6
Impressed with his passing game and distribution, but lacked composure while making tackles or staging zonal markings. Won most of the duels but lacked pace at times, especially while dealing with Valencia’s robustness in the attacking third.
Samuel Umtiti: 6
Made several key recoveries but looked rusty while tackling and challenging for the ball. Tried to build the game up from the deep with his passing and dribbling attempts.
Ansu Fati: 5.5
The 17-year-old failed to leave an impact this time barring a few sparkling moments. Was taken off to be replaced by Alex Collado in the closing minutes of the game.
Sergio Busquets: 6
Completed the most number of passes (118, stats via Fotmob) and kept on making tactical fouls in the centre of the pitch to prevent Valencia from staging counter-attacking threats.
Frenkie de Jong: 5
The Dutchman was disappointing in the middle of the park as he not only got dispossessed dangerously on a couple of occasions but also wasted opportunities upfront which should have been converted. Made way for Ivan Rakitic late in the match.
Arthur: 5.5
Offered little in midfield as his passes lacked enough creativity and imagination. Was replaced by Arturo Vidal early in the second half.
Jordi Alba: 6
The ball deflected off him to find the net for Valencia minutes after the break. Created a few chances upfront but left the space behind far too often, which allowed Ferran Torres to threaten against the run of play.
Lionel Messi: 7
Had an array of attempts but could not find the back of the net despite being agonisingly close time and again. The Argentine exhibited his excellence but failed to turn things around this time.
Antoine Griezzman: 6
The Frenchman had a quiet game in spite of working hard in regaining possession and setting it up for his fellow teammates. Lacked the composure while leading the line alongside the iconic Argentine.
Barcelona Substitutes
Arturo Vidal: 6.5
Had a lively start as he offered pace, power and agility in midfield. Faded off with time as he could not instigate a comeback.
Alex Collado: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
Ivan Rakitic: NA
Played too little to warrant a rating.
