Ferran Torres arrived at Barcelona in the January transfer window earlier this year amid much fanfare. The former Valencia ace was brought in from Manchester City for a fee exceeding €50 million and was tipped to be the future of the Catalans’ frontline.
And even though the forward has shown glimpses of his ability, he is yet to fully shine and live up to the expectations that were placed on him upon his arrival. Torres ended the 2021/22 campaign with seven goals and six assists from 26 matches for Barça.
But the arrivals of Robert Lewandowski and Raphinha, coupled with the contract renewal of Ousmane Dembele have meant that the Spanish international has dropped down the pecking order.
While it has affected his game-time and, in turn, his rhythm, Torres has failed to make the most of the chances that have come towards him. Indeed, in six appearances in all competitions (two starts), he has scored and assisted just one goal each.
But in spite of his poor start to the season, manager Xavi Hernandez has no doubts about the 22-year-old forward and continues to bet on him.
This claim comes from SPORT, who state that the Barcelona head coach has faith in Torres and values him for the physical aspect of his game which helps the team maintain pressure on the opposition high up the pitch.
Xavi has started Torres in the games against Real Sociedad and Cadiz and opted to bring him on ahead of Ansu Fati in the match versus Bayern Munich when Barcelona were trailing and in search of goals.
It shows the level of faith that the manager has placed in the former Manchester City forward. And, there is a good chance that Torres could get the nod when Barça face Elche on Saturday. Should that materialise, the 22-year-old must take his opportunity and start delivering.
With Fati regaining fitness and sharpness and Memphis Depay also waiting in the wings, it is important for Torres to start producing the goods or he could risk falling further down in the attacking line at Barça.
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