Barcelona’s struggles in front of goal this season are well documented. The Catalans have had no dearth of chances created in recent games, yet, have seen points slip away purely owing to their inefficient finishing.

Vitor Roque’s arrival ahead of Barcelona’s next official game will serve as a big boost to Xavi’s side considering Robert Lewandowski’s poor form.

After all, the Polish striker once again disappointed against Almeria last night, and it was the captain Sergi Roberto who led from the front.

Epitome of efficiency

Lewandowski, despite his recent rut, continues to be Barcelona’s highest goal-scorer this season with eight league goals to his name.

He is closely followed by a pack of four players placed as the second-highest scorers – Raphinha, Ferran Torres, Joao Felix, and Sergi Roberto; all of whom have three goals to their names.

What strikes one as queer is the fact that Roberto boasts of higher efficiency in front of the goal than his teammates in the forward department.

Lewandowski averages a goal every 181 minutes, Raphinha every 199 minutes, Ferran Torres every 242 minutes, and Joao Felix scores every 330 minutes.

Roberto, meanwhile, averages one goal scored every 93 minutes, heads and shoulders better than his peers. Needless to say, the statistic speaks volumes about the team that is currently averaging a goal conversion rate of merely 11%.

Xavi praises the captain

Speaking to the press after the team’s shambolic 3-2 win over last-placed Almeria, Xavi was harshly critical of his players and their overall performance. Yet, he found the time in his press conference to praise Roberto not only for his performance but also for his leadership.

“Sergi is an example for everyone. The way he motivated players at half-time… he’s a leader.”

“I’m very happy for Sergi Roberto. As a midfielder, he scored two goals and he was close to scoring another one. He’s an example for other players,” he added.