‘He is a good player, but he is not a '10' midfielder. He is not the man who associates and makes the last pass,’ says Iván Hurtado about Joao Rojas' role in Barcelona SC
Iván Hurtado critiques Joao Rojas' adaptability to the creative role following the departure of Damián Díaz from Barcelona SC.
Following the departure of Damián Díaz from Barcelona SC, the team has struggled to find a traditional '10' midfielder, a role that Díaz filled exceptionally well during his time with the club. Díaz, who had two impactful spells with Barcelona SC between 2011-2013 and 2016-2024, was celebrated for his unpredictable playmaking that often turned the tide in matches. His abilities to create opportunities with precise passes made him a fan favorite and a key player for the team.
Iván Hurtado, a former footballer, expressed concerns about Joao Rojas, stating that while he is a good player, he does not possess the attributes required to take on the creative playmaker role that the team desperately needs. Historically, the number 10 jersey in football signifies a player who is instrumental in driving the play and creating scoring chances. Hurtado's critique highlights a potential gap in Barcelona SC's squad as they look for a suitable replacement for Díaz, who has left big shoes to fill.
The need for a replacement is further emphasized as the performance of Barcelona SC could be impacted if they fail to find a suitable creative player. This situation may affect their strategic gameplay and their chances in competitions. Analysts and fans alike will be watching closely to see how the team navigates this transition and whether they can successfully integrate a player who can embody the spirit of the number 10 jersey like Díaz did.