FC Barcelona vs Real Sociedad- The first match of the season

Unexpectedly the first match of FC Barcelona’s La Liga campaign will be the center of attention for the skeptical football world. The reason for that is simple- For the first time in 21 years, the name Lionel Messi is not officially associated with Barcelona anymore.

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All eyes will be on the Barcelona manager Ronald Koeman, who has to start the season with a massive disadvantage. No way he could have imagined the turnout when he got the green signal to continue at the club for a second year. Now the layouts of his tactical plans need to be spot on as there is no more an Argentine to bail him out.

Barcelona vs Real Sociedad

At a time like this, as fate would have it, the opponent is Real Sociedad. At first glance, yes, it’s not the Madrid duo, but still, they’re a considerable threat as a first opponent. Sociedad finished fifth last season to compete in the Europa League. We believe they are still in their dormant state, waiting to unleash their capability.

The reason for such an assumption is simple- they have fantastic talent in their squad. With frontmen like Willian Jose, Adnan Januzaj, Mikel Oyarzabal, and Alexander Isak followed by veterans like David Silva, it’s tough to write them off. The threat for Barcelona has been its defense.

With Ter Stegen out injured till October, Keoman has to rely on Neto and a younger team. Players like Garcia, Dest, Pedri, and Puig will play a valued part if they are motivated to snatch three vital points in the opening weekend. The only silver lining for the Blaugrana is their spectacular displayed result against Juventus for the Joan Gamper Trophy.

There is no denying the obvious that this season is one of transition, but a club like Barça can never have a season where they take a breather. The club demands results in more than ever now from the players. They have to step up to the challenge and prove themselves worthy of carrying Barça’s legacy forwards.