Why Barcelona’s Double Pivot Leaves Pedri and Gavi Struggling for Synergy

Barcelona’s young stars face tactical challenges in a misaligned double pivot role

Barcelona’s midfield has long been the hallmark of their success, a symphony of precision and creativity. Yet, recent tactical experiments have left fans scratching their heads. The double pivot strategy, featuring Pedri and Gavi, has sparked debate about its effectiveness and whether these prodigious talents are being utilized to their full potential.

At the heart of the issue lies a fundamental misalignment. Both Pedri and Gavi, though immensely gifted, are not natural fits for the double pivot role. Pedri thrives as a metronome, dictating tempo and threading incisive passes, while Gavi is a dynamo, excelling in transitional play and high pressing. When deployed together in a double pivot, their strengths overlap but fail to complement. Instead of synergy, there’s a sense of disconnection, with neither player fully able to impose themselves on the game.

This was glaringly evident in Barcelona’s recent struggles. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, the team lacked control in crucial moments, leading to costly defensive lapses. The high defensive line, combined with an unbalanced midfield, left gaps that opponents exploited ruthlessly. The stats don’t lie: Barcelona’s 71% possession and 27 shots against Las Palmas amounted to little, as the opposition capitalized on just a handful of opportunities.

Manager Hansi Flick’s insistence on sticking to his tactical blueprint, even with key players missing, has only exacerbated the problem. Marc Casadó’s suspension and injuries to wingers like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha left the team bereft of balance. Flick’s decision to field an extra midfielder instead of adapting the system highlighted the rigidity that has plagued this experiment.

What’s the solution? For starters, Barcelona must rethink the double pivot. Pedri and Gavi are generational talents who need a system that plays to their strengths. A more traditional midfield setup, with a true defensive midfielder anchoring the play, could provide the stability the team sorely needs. This would free Pedri to orchestrate from deeper positions and allow Gavi to roam and disrupt higher up the pitch.

Additionally, Flick must explore alternative options when key players are unavailable. The likes of Pau Victor or even Eric Garcia, who has shown potential in a defensive midfield role, could offer the balance and discipline required in Casadó’s absence. Tactical flexibility, rather than stubborn adherence to a flawed system, is essential for navigating the challenges of a long season.

It’s also worth considering the psychological impact on Pedri and Gavi. Both players are still in the formative stages of their careers, and constant tactical tinkering could hinder their development. They need clarity and consistency, not roles that force them to compromise their natural instincts.

Barcelona’s struggles are a reminder that football is as much about chemistry as it is about talent. The double pivot experiment with Pedri and Gavi may have been born out of necessity, but it has exposed deeper issues in the team’s setup. The good news is that these problems are not insurmountable. With a few tweaks and a willingness to adapt, Barcelona can harness the full potential of their midfield maestros.

For now, Flick must take a step back and reassess. Blaming players or sticking to a rigid system will only compound the issues. Instead, he should embrace this period of adversity as an opportunity to learn and grow. After all, even the greatest teams face challenges—it’s how they respond that defines their legacy.

References: Time for Hansi Flick to have a slice of humble pie after another Barcelona loss – Barca Blaugranes