Barcelona's success shines brighter amid rivals' shaky start

When Real Madrid officially announced the signing of Kylian Mbappé from PSG, it felt as though the La Liga title was already wrapped up for Los Blancos. Fans rushed to social media to celebrate what they believed was the completion of one of the most fearsome squads ever assembled, headlined by arguably the two best players in football with Mbappe and Vinicius Jr. Yet, three weeks into the La Liga campaign, Real Madrid is facing unexpected turbulence, while rivals FC Barcelona are soaring to new heights.

Mbappé, who has long preferred operating from the left flank, has struggled to adapt to his new role as a number nine. The adjustment has proven more challenging than anticipated, as his space is crowded by the likes of Vinicius and Rodrygo, who naturally gravitate to wider positions. Mbappe’s discomfort is evidenced by his zero goal contributions through his first three La Liga appearances, raising questions about how quickly Real Madrid can gel with their new superstar.

In stark contrast, Barcelona has hit the ground running, looking every bit the dominant force that supporters have come to expect from their beloved Catalonian side. New addition Dani Olmo has wasted no time making his mark, seamlessly integrating into Hansi Flick’s system with two goals in his first two matches. 

Olmo’s presence in the midfield, combined with the dynamic wide play of Lamine Yamal and Raphinha, has given Barcelona a multi-faceted attack that has proven difficult for opponents to contain. Even veteran striker Robert Lewandowski has rediscovered his peak form, recording four goals to top La Liga. The Blaugrana have found the back of the net 13 times in their first four matches, underscoring their harmonious link-up play and clinical finishing under pressure.

Defensively, Barcelona has also tightened the screws, with Pau Cubarsi and Inigo Martinez providing stability at the back. Alejandro Balde and Jules Kounde have consistently pushed forward, linking up with the attack and contributing to the team’s overall fluidity. Under Flick’s leadership, Barcelona looks like a well-oiled machine, with each player fully aware of their role and responsibilities within the system.

Real Madrid’s shaky start won’t persist, and Los Blancos will inevitably find their stride as the season progresses. Until then, it’s fair to note that their early struggles have only magnified Barcelona’s hot start, which has placed a temporary wet blanket over any hopes of an easy title defense.

Hansi Flick’s side has done something that no Barcelona team has been able to since 2018 — secure four wins in four matches to open a La Liga campaign. The 12 early points could prove invaluable in the title race, especially given the costly points fumbled away last season due to injuries and inconsistent play. 

Barring any major setbacks, Flick’s side seems poised to exorcise the demons of last season and challenge the defending champions head-on in their quest for redemption. As it stands, it’s not Real Madrid, but Barcelona that looks like the team to beat in Spain.