Only few teams in the history have revolutionized the game of football. None of them have made football as tantalizing and beautiful as the Catalan giants. Barcelona has an immensely rich history of playing good football. They have managed to win every single trophy and honor available. They have been the dominant force of La Liga for most of the decade. But now the masters of tiki taka are facing an uphill task in front of them.
Last season was a one to forget for the Spanish club, as they couldn’t grab any of the three available silverwares. This wound was rubbed salt when Real Madrid, managed to win the champions league as well the coppa del rey, beating Barcelona 2-1 in the final. Barcelona was almost unbeatable at its peak under the management of Josep Guardiola. The never like seen before tikki takka passing which left the opposition running all over the pitch in thirst of possession, looks to be decoded now. Barcelona have gifted many superstars to the world like, Messi, Xavi, Inesta ,who have technical superiority but have been overshadowed by the strength display of Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid. Last season Barcelona somewhat changed their style of play under the management of Tata Martino. They used much more crossing than before. Another reason for the underperformance of the team was Messi being injured and was not able to deliver a season of his high standards. The defense of Barcelona has been pointed out as the weakness by many experts for a couple of years now. And the decision to not improve its defense proved costly for the Catalan giants.
But this season Barcelona looks more ready to compete in comparison to the previous year. Neymar has proved himself at the big stage and will get better and better with time. Messi was fantastic in the world cup guiding his national team almost single handedly at times, and that magic will be much needed from the world’s best. The biggest focus though would be on the star new arrival from Liverpool, Uruguay’s Luis Suarez. The striker would now get a taste of Spain. Barcelona has neglected the controversy around him and signed him even though he is facing a ban. But no one can deny how mouthwatering it would be to see the trio of Messi, Suarez and Neymar work together. If Suarez can munch the right amount of enthusiasm in his new team and leave the opposition with scars to remember, Barcelona looks to be on the right way. Alongside Suarez, Barcelona have also captured the signings of Ivan Rakitic, Ter Stegan, and Bravo. But a big hole will be left by the transfer of xavi the heart of the Barcelona midfield. This season Barcelona have appointed a new manager in Luis Enrique. The former player who is a cool character has assured the fans that this year; Barcelona will be playing more attacking football and is confident of a successful season.
As the new season’s approaches, the world’s eyes will be focused on Barcelona. And will be hoping to see the level of football that only Barcelona can pull off. Rivals will be aware that Barcelona will be out with for vengeance. The current domestic champions Atletico Madrid doesn’t look the same due to big transfers. But Real Madrid have made significant transfers including James Rodrigues and Toni Kroos. Barcelona will enter this season with hopes of not only winning the la liga and Champions League back, but also with a motive to restore the pride back to Catalonia.
– Jainam Jhaveri
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