Aleix Vidal was signed to be Dani Alves’s long-term replacement, but things had taken a bleak turn. Luis Enrique converted Sergi Roberto to right-back from his usual midfield spot, and not only preferred him, but used him almost exclusively.
Vidal’s poor showing in the early stages of the season led Lucho to all but sell him. A replacement, Darijo Srna, had already been approached.
But after going 14 league matches without playing, Vidal has made an appearance in the past four, including three starts. He even scored two goals.
It remains to be seen if Vidal will unseat Roberto from the starting fullback spot, but there’s no doubt he is trusted to be an integral part of the team now.