Barcelona Four systems in three games

Trying as many as four different systems in his first three games as Barcelona boss, Ernesto Valverde is still seeking the perfect formation to use at the Camp Nou.

The usual 4-3-3 did not work against Real Madrid and the 3-5-2 was also easily deconstructed by Los Blancos, before Valverde switched to a 4-4-2.

Barcelona then employed a 4-2-3-1 system with great success against Real Betis on Sunday.

Downing Betis was by far the most convincing performance so far under Valverde and the tactics used appear to be one of the keys behind the success, bringing the best out of Gerard Deulofeu and Sergi Roberto.

The double pivot at the base of midfield was fundamental to providing stability to the team, with Sergio Busquets and Ivan Rakitic providing protection for the defence and offering support for those further up the field.

Lionel Messi's use as a false No.9 was surprising but effective, as it allowed him the freedom to move and drag the Betis defenders around like pawns in a game of chess.

What we can learn from the early Valverde days is that he will not be stubborn with his system and use the same tactics in every game, instead rotating between several systems and, at times, even changing in the one match.

Barcelona face Alaves in round two on Saturday and, with Andres Iniesta possibly returning, it will be interesting to see what way Valverde sets out his side.