Squad analysis La Liga 2018: Barcelona
Barcelona have dominated La Liga in the recent years, winning the title thrice in the last four campaigns. They will look to continue their successful run in the 2018-19 season, which will kick off from April 17, 2018. They have made some important signings this season and are looking stronger than ever. Here we analyze the Barcelona squad.
Barca's custodian Marc-André ter Stegen has been at the top of his game for quite some time now. He is presently among the best goal-keepers in the world. The goal-keeper had kept 18 clean sheets last year out of his 33 appearances in La Liga. The experienced Cillessen will also provide the necessary support when required.
In the last season, Barcelona had troubles in the defensive quarters as they conceded several unnecessary goals. They were defeated by Roma in the quarter-finals of the UCL, a game they should have won. Samuel Umtiti is coming after the World Cup win and this should give him enough confidence. Pique should also up his game and help the squad in this regard.
Blaugrana have signed Frenchman Clement-Lenglet from Sevilla for €35 mn and he can prove to be a valuable addition. He has great potential, can perform at the top level, and his style would suit Barca.
It was a daunting task to shape-up Barcelona's mid-field after the departure of the legendary Andres Iniesta. However, Coutinho has shown that he is up for the task. Rakitic and Busquets will help the squad with their past experiences. Barca also have the option to rotate players after the arrival of Malcom from Bordeaux and Arturo Vidal from Bayern. The mid-field looks pretty strong.
Coutinho has amazed at Camp Nou with his goals, skills, and ability to sync-in with Barca's style. His goals for Barca last season and during the World Cup for Brazil were spectacular. He scored 8 goals in 18 appearances for Barca in 2017-18
Sergi Roberto and Jordi Alba are two underrated pillars of Barcelona. Roberto can adjust to any position and has always given Barca the last minute push. Alba can be the key who connects the defense to the attack in a flash.
There is no particular concern for the GOAT Messi. However, he has to get past his dismal performance at the World Cup and concentrate on the job at hand. Suarez had faced scarcity of goals during the initial phase of the last season but has picked up his form since then. Dembele's spectacular strike against Sevilla in the Super Cup will boost his confidence.
When the ultimate talisman, Messi, is in form, Barca create wonders. Messi was phenomenal as usual last season, scoring 34 goals in 36 appearances. He has taken on the role of the play-maker and his vision will be the key to Barcelona's success.
