27.06.2010 12:49
World Cup boosts Barca players
Marc Guillén
Although it’s true that a World Cup can leave players tired at the start of the next season, it’s equally true that a successful tournament could pay big dividends in terms of confidence and new experiences for the Barça players when they return.
Although the advantages might seem pretty intangible, Barca’s World Cup players know that the
opportunity to shine on the global stage can give a real boost to confidence for the next season
and also provide the chance to show off skills and abilities that may not have been to the fore
during the regular season. The example of Xavi and Iniesta, whose success at the 2008 European
Championships kick started a brilliant run of form for both, will undoubtedly serve as an impetus
for the Barca players in South Africa.
Villa out on the wing
Villa has shown his worth throughout his career as an out and out
striker, but Vicente del Bosque has also given him the chance this World Cup to show that he can
perform just as successfully on the left wing – something that could be very useful for
Guardiola next year. The fact that Villa is joint top scorer at the Tournament and the confidence
that will give him also bode well for the coming campaign at the Nou Camp.
Messi out to show who’s Number One
This World Cup has come at a great time for Leo Messi. The World Number One came in
for some stick at home during Argentina’s stuttering qualification phase, but he has shown
himself to be one of the Tournament’s most incisive figures so far in South Africa and is
clearly enjoying the opportunity to entertain on the World stage.
Iniesta and Márquez
There are always players whose season is marred by injury and a lack of continuity
and Rafa Marquez and Andres Iniesta both needed a good World Cup to make up for some of their
disappointments during the last year. Both Barca players have scored decisive goals in the group
stages and will be looking to for success in South Africa as a recompense for their misfortune at
times during the regular season.
New talents
The World Cup is also a great chance to show off new talent, as well as being a recognition
of a successful past season and for Valdés, Alves, Pedro, Piqué and Busquets, the trip to South
Africa will give a boost of self confidence, as well as confirming their positions as members of
the global footballing elite.