Barcelona welcomes Afellay, what are the expectations?-Updated Highlights: Afellay’s arrival
A new player joined Barca’s squad and the expectations are high already. Ibrahim Afellay has a huge challenge to take as it is not easy to adapt with the intensity and urgency of Barcelona’s football. Especially for a player joining in the middle of a season rather than during the preseason period where there is more time to settle and adapt without the concern of the match the team will play next.
The good thing that will do him a favor is his versatility. He is capable of playing in many positions which will give him enough opportunities to prove himself. Having Iniesta, Keita, and Xavi ahead of him in the midfield and youth players emerging from the farm behind him means that he need to work harder than he ever did if he wants to survive in this demanding club. He can also play on the flanks and he may have a better chance to blossom there.
Barcelona fans need to give him time. Everyone will like it if he surprises us all by a stunning performance that makes him a world beater since day one, but it is important not to bet on that. Historically players take time to catch the team’s tempo but when they do they add lot of pleasure to Barca’s football exhibition.
As for Afellay, of what I saw, he has a talent. And of what I know, he has a strong personality-in a good way. He has to improve his work rate and urgency, which is attainable if he is aware of the level of football he has the opportunity to contribute in.
As I already mentioned, Barcelona had other alternatives inside the club for the positions Afellay plays best, which makes the bar of satisfaction demands higher. But for the price paid, he may prove being one of the best transfers Barcelona made recently.
I can’t avoid wondering if the club will find a new Larsson to sign, as this is still a need to perfect the squad, but that’s another topic. For now, good luck Afellay and welcome to the best club in the world!
Update
Posted by Ramzi
on 06:05.
Filed under