FC Barcelona are in scintillating form as they secure the second spot in UCL Group Stage play
Barcelona has been in scintillating form since dropping a 1-2 decision at home to Atletico Madrid on December 21. After that loss and a 2-week break for Christmas, they have won the Spanish Super Cup in dominating fashion against Real Madrid 5-2, registered two Copa del Rey wins, a dramatic 5-4 Champions League comeback win against Benfica, and most recently an astounding 7-1 La Liga victory over Valencia. The lone setback was a draw against Getafe on January 18th, where FC Barcelona played well against arguably one of the most defensive sides in all of football.
This week, Barcelona handled their Champions League clash with Atalanta without conceding all three points to another electric attacking side. Having scored 25 goals in the competition, they finished the group stage in second place—a testament to the drive and consistency of this young and hungry Barca squad.
So, what has changed since November and December, when they won just five of 11 matches?
First and foremost, Pedri. The 22-year-old midfielder has been the heartbeat of FC Barcelona, dictating the tempo, defending well, and, most importantly, allowing the attacking players to focus on scoring. While he may not stand out like Lamine Yamal or Raphinha at first glance, a closer look reveals that he is the one pulling the strings, orchestrating everything positive on the field.
Speaking of Lamine and Raphinha—mamma mia. A combined 17 goals and 16 assists between them, and it’s still only January. They have been virtually unplayable for opposing defenses, and with Robert Lewandowski also sitting on 17 goals, it’s no surprise that FC Barcelona’s attack is the talk of Europe.
There’s some concern about the number of goals FC Barcelona is conceding—nine in their last five matches—but when you’re scoring at this rate, it’s hardly a major worry. Hansi Flick’s high defensive line is partly to blame, yet it’s also fueling Barcelona’s relentless attack.
With center-back Inigo Martinez set to return from injury and Ronald Araujo signing a contract extension, defensive stability should improve. But even if it doesn’t, Barcelona has shown they can simply outscore any team in Europe.