Evaluating team defense

I need to analyze Barcelona's performance based on conceding 1.33 goals per game over 15 games. That's worth comparing to previous seasons under Xavi, where the average was around 0.9 goals. I should touch on their defensive scheme, including the high line and half-space protections. It's crucial to mention player transitions, like Busquets being replaced and possibly Araujo or Kounde facing injuries. I'll suggest metrics like PPDA and xGA per shot, while being careful about potential inaccuracies.Analyzing defensive challenges

I’m breaking down why Flick's Barcelona might be conceding goals. Their high defensive line and aggressive rest-defense can lead to transitions since wingers are positioned high and wide. This results in gaps, especially with isolated pivots and overlapping fullbacks.

Counterpressing is inconsistent, and they have issues managing set pieces, historically vulnerable in that area. Individual errors during pressure situations and a lack of a natural defensive midfielder add to the concern, along with fatigue from fixture congestion. Game states where they chase leads can also create chaos, leading to more goals conceded.Suggesting defensive adjustments

I’m thinking about some adjustments for the team. For rest-defense, the idea is to keep a 3+2 structure and have only one fullback invert at a time, while the far-side winger tucks in. For pressing, narrower wingers might be helpful to cut inside, leading to coordinated traps.

Using a mid-block more often when leading, and lowering the defensive line when necessary could work too. Enhancing set-pieces with a man-plus-zonal marking style and better personnel adjustments might improve the overall defense. I could also suggest lineup alternatives and ask if the user wants a deeper tactical analysis.Identifying issues and suggesting adjustments

It looks like the situation is worse than I thought. Goals are being conceded from transitions, set pieces, and overloads behind advanced fullbacks or in half-spaces. There are structural issues like simultaneous fullback inversions that isolate the pivot, leading to center-backs being outnumbered.

For adjustments, I suggest a 3+2 rest shape, staggering the eight positions, and rotating pressing duties. Monitoring KPIs like xGA/90, transitional concessions, and shots per counter is essential. I could propose drills or shapes to visualize things better and end by asking if they’d like a lineup-specific plan or match breakdown.