Xavi makes one tactical decision v Villarreal that could rescue Barca's season

Xavi has decided to start the midfield pairing of Oriol Romeu and Frenkie de Jong against Villarreal.

In La Liga, this happens for the first time since September when De Jong got sidelined for a few months. Since then, the two have only started together in Copa del Rey against Unionistas when Romeu was one of the best players for Barca.

Playing with Romeu and De Jong was Xavi's initial plan for the whole season, with the former being used as a stop-gap and a cover for the Dutchman. The veteran had a great start to the campaign, but his form dropped right after Frenkie picked up an injury.

Barcelona's results with Romeu and De Jong as starters:

- 7 wins (including 5-0 v Real Betis and 4-3 v Villarreal);

- 2 draws;

- 0 losses.