Barcelona were far from dominant against Manchester City on Tuesday night, but with a side largely composed of youngsters, there were largely encouraging signs from Hansi Flick’s charges. A 2-2 draw could have been turned into a win late on, and the Blaugrana won the penalty shootout 4-1.
There were however some negatives. As per MD, Mikayil Faye did not play due to a knock from last week that he has been nursing, although he is expected to play at the weekend against Real Madrid. Meanwhile Pablo Torre and Vitor Roque were also said to have finished their showings with minor knocks, although they are not expected to keep them out.
Pep Guardiola (Manchester City coach): "I liked Flick's Barça a lot. The season is long, but I liked them. Their positional game is extraordinary, the wingers act as wingers, the interiors arrive facing forward, the full-backs attack the spaces." Via @mundodeportivo
— barcacentre (@barcacentre) July 31, 2024
The Brazilian was one of three less impressive performances for the Blaugrana too. None of the trio played more than a half of football, and at this stage of their preseason, little can be expected of them.
Vitor Roque
Amid intense speculation over his future, Roque still looked a little off the pace. The 19-year-old returned to training early to try and prove himself in preseason, but struggled to get into the game and was withdrawn at the half.
Hector Fort
Tipped to make the step up this season after impressive performances, he suffered against Jack Grealish, and much of City’s joy came down Barcelona’s right. Not the first and not the last to do so, but a tough 45 minutes for the 17-year-old.
Robert Lewandowski
The 35-year-old striker turns 36 in three weeks, and is coming off an ankle injury that limited his participation at Euro 2024. He only returned to training a few days ago, so it’s not surprising he was not sharp in the final half hour, but he fluffed a chance to win it, being too slow to get his shot off, and was a notable step down from Pau Victor.
