article_snippet.sent: But Bale former Tottenham team-mate has no real replacement.
article_snippet.sent: and so the Croatian was not missed too much but against Juventus his absence will be felt.
article_snippet.sent: his could be back for the final but the Croatian may not get there without his.
article_snippet.sent: For now there are neither injuries nor suspensions but Reasons are forever on the cusp of a potential crisis because the strength in depth is just not there.
article_snippet.sent: Ivan Rakitic, Sergi Busquets and Andres Iniesta is a fine midfield but the second-string middle three of Rafinha, Sergio Roberto and the now
article_snippet.sent: 35-year-old Xavi offers fewer guarantees.
article_snippet.sent: Likewise at the back there is a gulf in class between the four first-choice defenders and those who would have to step in.
article_snippet.sent: Injuries to key players like Ivan Rakitic could expose the lack of depth in BARCELONA by Pete Jensen's squad .