Xavi’s outside of the box thinking is a double edged sword

Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty ImagesWhen you’re battling for a spot at the top of the table, only wins will do.

Xavi knows this better than anyone, and will be kicking himself for not getting out of his own way after dropping points in Pamplona.

For better, and maybe at times for worse, Xavi is not like Ronald Koeman.

So far, to mixed results, he’s shown a willingness to experiment and take risks.

Part of this is out of necessity. Especially with player selection, since the list of available players continues to drop from week to week.

In terms of formation and tactics, however, Xavi is a searcher, and is unwilling to settle for a pragmatic, and consistent solution.

Photo by ANDER…