Barcelona is preparing for the second leg of their Champions League quarterfinal against Atlético Madrid after a 0-2 home defeat. Former Barça forward Jean Marie Dongou offered a tactical suggestion that might turn the tie around in Madrid.
Dongou observed that Barcelona started the first leg sluggishly, lacking rhythm and pressure. He noted that the team played better after Pau Cubarsí’s red card, indicating strong character and fighting spirit.
The main advice is to reposition promising youngster Lamine Yamal from the flank to a more central role. Dongou believes that Yamal’s impact is limited on the wing, especially given the recent dips in form from Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski. Moving him inside could increase creativity and offensive options.
Dongou stresses that coach Hansi Flick must explore such new solutions and not repeat first leg mistakes. By adjusting Yamal’s position, Barcelona might boost their chances of overturning the deficit and progressing to the semifinals, where they would face the winner of Sporting Lisbon and Arsenal.
He also subtly critiques the refereeing decisions, particularly Cubarsí’s red card, which complicated Barcelona’s task. Such comments underline the psychological and tactical challenges the team faces.
Ultimately, Dongou’s analysis provides a practical strategic pathway. With so much at stake, leveraging young talent like Yamal in a more central role may be key to mounting a successful comeback.
