What formation does Xavi use?

One of the most important decisions Xavi must make ahead of his managerial debut against Espanyol in a highly-anticipated derby is the starting XI.

With this appointment, several players stand to gain and others stand to lose, but Xavi faces a difficult task in balancing the players with their respective roles and accurately weighing the importance of experience.

We can safely assume that the three formations he is most likely to use are the 3-4-3, then 3-4-1-2, and the traditional 4-3-3, based on his managerial tenure at Al Sadd.

Barcelona’s defence is without a doubt its weakest point. Because of his injury history and lack of game experience, Samuel Umtiti can’t be considered a contender for the starting spot. This factor, however, may change, as reports claim that Xavi has been pleasantly surprised by the Frenchman in training and places a high level of trust in him.

Though Xavi used the 3-4-3 more frequently, the 4-3-3 is better suited to the personnel he has at his disposal.