Lionel Messi's Heat Map Vs. Real Sociedad Highlights Problem For Barcelona

Lionel Messi's heat map paints an interesting picture.

Barcelona recorded a fourth successive La Liga victory by beating Real Sociedad away from home on Saturday, though something problematic emerged regarding the clubs talisman.

Messi could fill in any position and do a job but you don't necessarily want him at right-back, rather the attacking third where he can do the most damage.

However, right-back was where he was practically playing on Saturday.

Ernesto Valverde fielded Nelson Semedo at right-back before dragging him off at half-time for Philippe Coutinho to freshen up his side.

Messi failed to pull the strings in Real Sociedad's box because he was constantly picking up the ball from the right-back area.

A lack of creativity prompted Messi to grab the game by the scruff of it's neck which ultimately meant dropping deep. Very deep.

Anyway, Barcelona eventually secured all three league points after coming from behind.

Aritz Elustondo opened the scoring for the hosts. Luis Suarez and Ousmane Dembele made it 1-1 then 2-1.

Meanwhile, Barcelona put their league campaign to a side as they host PSV Eindhoven in the Champions League next week.

Surely, Valverde tinkers his team so Messi can influence the game in the final third...?

Topics: Football News, Football, Barcelona, Lionel Messi

Nasir Jabbar

Nasir Jabbar is a journalist at SPORTbible. He graduated from Bath Spa University with a BA in Media Communications. He's a combat sport aficionado, and has contributed to MMA websites AddictedMMA and CagePotato. Nasir has covered some of the biggest fights, while interviewing the likes of Conor McGregor, Darren Till, Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua. He's also an avid Bristol City fan.

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