Dani Alves is ready to play for this Barcelona team

It's very soon, to assess what role Dani Alves should play at Barcelona from January on. But, he showed in his first appearance - the Maradona Cup match against Boca Juniors - that he is almost certainly going straight into the XI.

He showed more quality, resourcefulness and know-how in just four moments than most others in the squad have in the entire first round of the LaLiga Santander season. He played 90 minutes, showed good distribution of the ball, created chances and was always offering a solution for his teammates.

In the second half he acted as captain. He moved into the middle and his defensive obligations were loosened in the final stretch of the game. It was clear to see that the benefits he brings are greater than anybody else who occupies that right-hand side.

The right-back competition is a centre-back

Looking at the right-back position, Sergi Roberto is out injured for a while, Sergino Dest isn't someone that Xavi Hernandez likes and Ronald Araujo is wasted at full-back. The Uruguayan is unbeatable in defensive duels, but he's left lacking when he has to step forward and build something.

Barcelona don't have enough players who can provide that final ball, that instinctive pass that kills defences, but Dani Alves has that more than most of his current teammates.

It will be important to see the shape he is in and how the demands of playing wear on him, but the first impression of Dani Alves is good and, in a time of crisis, it gives something for Barcelona to cling on to. He gives them a bit of nostalgic hope that they aren't exactly filled with at the moment.