The Xavi era has begun in Barcelona! In the best possible way with a triumph in the city derby! He watched from distant Qatar, the once great midfielder, how his home club stumbled this season, and how far it all is from that splendor when he was in command of the midfield.Today, during the duel with Espanyol, Xavi Hernendez saw that he has his work cut out for him. Even so, the most important for Xavi is that Barcelona defeated Espanyol 1-0, breaking their negative streak of four matches without a triumph in the Primera. Xavi will be able to focus on the next challenges, although it is certainly clear to him that a period full of uncertainty awaits him.Barcelona did not struggle much, they really deserved a triumph over the city rival. Barca had the possession, just like in Xavi’s playing days, but they didn’t impress either. One could even say that Barcelona looked slow and disorganized.But the Blaugrana were persistent and welcomed the big mistake of the rival. The turning point happened in the 48th minute when Sergi Gomez tried to stop Memphis Depay in a solid position with an unnecessary sliding start. It was a classic example of the most severe punishment, which the Dutchman turned into, it will turn out, a decisive goal.Xavi remained consistent with Barca’s principles and sent in a 4-3-3 formation onto the pitch. There were no major tactical surprises. That’s enough for a start. But everything could have been different if Dimata had a bit more luck in the finish. He hit the ball nicely with his head after a cross from the right side, but it passed next to Ter Stegen’s post.LA LIGA ROUND 14FridayLevante – Athletic Club 0-0SaturdayCelta – Villareal 1-1 (0-1)/Mendez 72 – Moreno 27/Sevilla – Alaves 2-2 (1-2)/Ocampos 38, Rakitic 90+2 – Laguardia 5, Joselu 45+7 pen/Atl.Madrid – Osasuna 1-0 (0-0)/Felipe 87/Barcelona – Espanyol 1-0 (0-0)/Depay 48 pen/Sunday16.00: (2.05) Getafe (3.25) Cadiz (4.30)18.15: (7.25) Granada (4.50) Real Madrid (1.50)20.30: (3.50) Elche (3.35) Betis (2.25)23.00: (1.75) Sociedad (3.70) Valencia (5.40)Monday23.00: (1.92) Rayo Vallecano (3.50) Mallorca (4.50)***odds are subject to change
