da realbet： This article is part of Football FanCast’s Monthly Review series, which analyses what managers can learn from the previous month and what the coming month could have in store.
da spicy bet： October is almost over and Ernesto Valverde definitely has a thing or two to address going into the next month. Interestingly enough, the two key issues are closely related to each other and concern Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann.
Griezmann’s role in the team
When Griezman arrived from Atletico Madrid last summer, it seemed like Barcelona finally found their striker.
But Valverde had different ideas and the Frenchman was slotted onto the left-wing instead of his prefered centre-forward position. This decision has already stirred discussions throughout the season but more worryingly than that, it has limited Griezmann and his contribution to the team.
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As a result, and despite scoring four goals and assisting three so far in La Liga, he has often been anonymous and still trying to find his rightful place in this Blaugrana squad.
One of the key things for the coach to figure out in the coming month should definitely be identifying a clear role for Griezmann in the team.
After all, we all know how capable he is and it’s all about being able to utilise him to the best of his abilities.
Let’s see if Valverde manages to do exactly that.
The Suarez issue
The other problem Barcelona are currently facing is Suarez’s form.
And sure, when he’s in the mood and up for it, the Uruguayan is still one of the world’s best.
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But the problem is that he’s been nowhere near that for quite some time now and his displays are a worrying sign for the Blaugrana. This should definitely be addressed sooner rather than later and Valverde would be wise to try and fix it in the coming month already.
Interestingly enough, one solution could potentially get two birds with one stone – benching Suarez and playing Griezmann instead of him.
In that scenario, the Frenchman can have his preferred role back and the Uruguayan gets his much-needed rest until he can regain his form.
On the face of it, that doesn’t sound so complicated but so far, the coach has been reluctant to implement it.
Maybe November is finally when he decides to pull the trigger.