5 big decisions Xavi must take to revitalise Barcelona

#3 Frenkie de Jong over Sergio Busquets in central defensive midfield

Xavi should consider making Frenkie de Jong (left) his first-choice defensive midfielder.

It's quite clear Barcelona legend Sergio Busquets isn't as sharp as he once used to be. The Spaniard has struggled to cope with the pace of opposition teams, often getting caught out and committing needless fouls.

It is high time Xavi relegates the 33-year-old to a bit-part role and returns Frenkie de Jong to his natural position in defensive midfield. During his time with Ajax and the Netherlands, the Dutchman played a key role in shielding the defence efficiently while performing the role of a deep-lying playmaker.

In fact, he was one of Barcelona's top performers last season, putting his skills on display with eye-catching performances in the centre of the pitch. Now is the time for Xavi to unleash the 24-year-old.

#2 Xavi needs to sign a reliable centre-back for Barcelona

Barcelona are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Matthijs de Ligt.

Barcelona's options at the heart of defence leave a lot to be desired. Clement Lenglet and Samuel Umtiti have proven to be more of liabilities than assets in recent months.

Ronald Araujo and Gerard Pique are decent options, but have become limited by injuries, while Eric Garcia hasn't fully gelled with the team.

Therefore, Xavi will need to add one or two reliable centre-backs to the squad to tighten things up at the back. Fortunately, there a many options in the transfer market who could improve Barcelona's defence right away.

The likes of Matthijs De Ligt, Aymeric Laporte and Jules Kounde have all been linked with a switch to Camp Nou. It remains to be seen who ends up getting the nod.

#1 Sign a prolific striker

Erling Haaland is Barcelona's dream target to bolster Xavi's options up front.

Certainly, Barcelona's situation would've been much better if they had someone banging in the goals consistently this season. That's why Xavi must go all out to sign a very prolific striker as soon as possible.

Borussia Dortmund's Erling Haaland is reportedly the Blaugrana's top option to take up the striker role. The Norwegian has been one of the most prolific finishers in the game in the last few seasons, and there's no doubt he would bring a lot to the team.

Fiorentina's Dusan Vlahovic and FC Basel's Arthur Cabral are other fine options who have also been linked with the club. They're both decent options who could help Xavi rejuvenate Barcelona's flagging fortunes.