André Gomes

[Co0ter]

Really odd player to watch. He holds onto the ball way too long at times, other times he plays himself out of a bad situation or pass by quickly one-touching the ball away, playing a diamond. Other than that and some sloppy passes, he had a solid game. He still looks nervous, doesn't know if he should try to do his thing or play it safe still, but at least he took some chances. Could be a fun player to watch once he gets comfortable.

 

[Messi983]

It was his first official game and after only 10 days of trainings. It's understandable that he was nervous and looked lost sometimes but he has also shown a lot of potential with his movements, passing and already seems to develop some chemistry with Messi which is always good. He also played alongside Denis who is also new in the team and looked lost himself sometimes. Let's wait and see how he'll play with Rakitić and/or Iniesta who both know the system and their role perfectly.

I'm interested which role Lucho has in his mind for him longterm though. I thought he was brought in more as competition and possible successor of Rakitić but so far he plays more in Iniesta role. Maybe because he's more used to that and it's a bit easier to learn from the beginning as Rakitić's role is more tactical and defensive. We'll see how he'll develop but as some previous posters said it will be fun to watch both him and Denis. I believe both will stay here for a long time. They'll make mistakes but both are talented and will be a nice refreshment for our midfield.

 

[FCBarca]

Really odd player to watch. He holds onto the ball way too long at times, other times he plays himself out of a bad situation or pass by quickly one-touching the ball away, playing a diamond. Other than that and some sloppy passes, he had a solid game. He still looks nervous, doesn't know if he should try to do his thing or play it safe still, but at least he took some chances. Could be a fun player to watch once he gets comfortable.

Absolutely nerves, IMO. I noticed this with all the newbies other than Digne, everyone a bit afraid to make a mistake from the look of it - strange considering Barcelona really were playing with the advantage in the cup tie, at Camp Nou.

I prefer a cautious approach early to embarrassing yourself but he did make mistakes - some were just a lack of understanding of positioning of his teammates. He's smart & skilled so I look forward to seeing his development

 

[Neeraj]

Thought he was too safe for my liking, but I'm going to put that down to confidence.

One thing was a bit odd though, he didn't seem very..energetic? I mean, yeah, the game wasn't exactly fast paced and we were on cruise control throughout, but he seemed a bit..static. You'd think a new young player would be keen to impress and be running around everywhere, but that was hardly the case.. Oh well, apart from that, can't draw many inferences so early on.

 

[FCBarca]

I thought it was being cautious really, combined with nerves. To be fair he was asked to do more at Valencia and since Barca have the majority of possession you don't want to get caught out

 

[spark]

 

[NeyMesSis]

IMO he played a really good game

 

[Zincubus]

I actually prefer him to Rakitic to be honest .

 

[Barcaman]

Good joke

 

[KingMessi]

Good joke

Well he is better looking.

 

[Pepe Silvia]

He's a rough diamond.

This

 

[Zincubus]

Good joke

No joke .

I simply don't get the hype of Rakitic , never have tbh .
We're used to having a midfield of Xavi , Iniesta and Busqs . Busqs is still amazing but Iniesta has probably seen his best days and Rakitic is nowhere near to being at Xavi's level , never will be either I feel .

Just an opinion .

 

[Pepe Silvia]

No joke .

I simply don't get the hype of Rakitic , never have tbh .
We're used to having a midfield of Xavi , Iniesta and Busqs . Busqs is still amazing but Iniesta has probably seen his best days and Rakitic is nowhere near to being at Xavi's level , never will be either I feel .

Just an opinion .

Saying he will never reach the heights of Xavier, who will ffs?, is one thing. Saying you don't get the hype about him is entirely different and frankly, pretty strange mate. Rakitic is an outstanding footballer.

 

[Stric]

What hype? There was never hype about Rakitić. And there still isn't. He came for a small amount, he worked hard and earned his place. That's why he's appreciated now.

And there's no point in comparing him to Xavi. Primarily because every other CM would pale in comparison with Xavi, but more importantly, because Rakitić plays a completely different role compared to Xavi's. So if you're going to judge him comparing to Xavi, he's gonna look completely out of place.

 

[KingMessi]

Rakitic is underrated as hell.