Despite facing a tough draw and missing key players like Pedri, Gavi, and Ousmane Dembele, the team understands that winning in Europe was not their primary objective this season.
Barcelona are determined to win the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles
Barcelona’s recent Europa League exit at the hands of Manchester United was a disappointment, but the club remains focused on achieving success this season. Despite facing a tough draw and missing key players like Pedri, Gavi, and Ousmane Dembele, the team understands that winning in Europe was not their primary objective this season. Instead, they are determined to win the La Liga and Copa del Rey titles, having already secured the Supercopa de Espana earlier in the season. Barcelona is currently undergoing a transition period, but they have made some significant summer signings and are taking important steps towards returning to their former glory.
Winning the treble would be a major milestone in this journey, but they recognize that defeating their arch-rivals, Real Madrid, will be the biggest obstacle. Therefore, securing a win in the Copa del Rey semi-final against Los Blancos could provide a much-needed morale boost and set the team up for success in their other competitions.
The team is determined to continue improving
Barcelona understands that financial constraints will limit their ability to compete with Real Madrid in the transfer market this summer. They are, therefore, determined to win the league title while they are currently eight points ahead of their rivals in the table. If they can achieve this, it will be a significant accomplishment, given their recent struggles. Overall, Barcelona has a realistic approach to their current situation. They acknowledge their transition period and the challenges they face but remain focused on achieving success in the domestic competitions this season. Winning the treble would be a major accomplishment and a testament to the progress they have made so far. Regardless of the outcome, the team is determined to continue improving and return to their former greatness.
Fati has struggled with injuries in recent years
Bad news struck Barcelona and Ansu Fati as the Spanish international striker suffered a left knee contusion during a training session last Friday. While the club did not provide a timeframe for his return, Fati will sit out of Sunday’s match against Almeria as a precautionary measure. The 20-year-old, who has struggled with injuries in recent years, has not been able to secure a regular spot in the team’s forward line this season, despite the lack of attacking talent. He has only started in 10 out of 34 games, scoring six goals and providing three assists. Barcelona’s manager, Xavi, will also miss the services of Pedri and Ousmane Dembele due to their respective injuries.
The team will rely on the likes of Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski, Gavi, and Ferran Torres to lead the attack in Fati’s absence. Meanwhile, Ronald Araujo may be rested for the upcoming Clasico in the Copa del Rey on Thursday, following some discomfort during the game against Manchester United.
While the knee contusion may not be severe, the club will not rush Fati’s return, given his injury history. The team faces stiff competition for a place in the starting lineup, and the coach has preferred other players despite the lack of attacking talent. Fati’s reduced playing time was evident during the game against Manchester United, where he played only 15 minutes. With his recovery period unclear, it remains to be seen when the Barcelona youth product will return to the team’s forward line.