Defensive issues at Barcelona?

Barcelona won the La Liga title last season, and a crucial factor in their success was an impressive defensive performance. They conceded only 20 goals in 38 La Liga matches, keeping 26 clean sheets. They were by far the best defensive team in Europe, allowing only 0.5 goals per game on average.

However, this season tells a different story. Defensively, Barcelona hasn't been as solid, and this is one of the reasons they currently sit in 4th place in the league with 34 points, trailing the leaders Girona by 7 points.

Barcelona defensive stats 2023/24: 
◉ 16 games 
◉ 18 goals conceded 
◉ 1.1 goals conceded per game
◉ 7 clean sheets 

Xavi has rotated extensively in the center-back position this season, with Jules Kounde, Andreas Christensen, Ronald Araujo, and Inigo Martinez sharing playing time. Xavi hasn't found the optimal solution yet, but it appears that Jules Kounde and Ronald Araujo are the preferred choices in the center of defense at the moment.

Andreas Christensen La Liga stats:
◉ 13 games
◉ 96% pass success 
◉ 7 tackles 

Jules Kounde La Liga stats:
◉ 13 games
◉ 92.1% pass success 
◉ 14 tackles 

Ronald Araujo La Liga stats: 
◉ 10 games 
◉ 89.1% 
◉ 10 tackles 

It's three different center-backs, but one thing is certain – none of them are satisfied with being on the bench. Therefore, rumors are circulating that one of them will be sold in the summer, and it could very well be the Danish player Andreas Christensen. Stability is the keyword for Barcelona this season, so Xavi needs to find a solution to the defensive issues soon if they are to reclaim the La Liga trophy.