In recent seasons, Barcelona, a club synonymous with success and beautiful football, has faced unprecedented challenges. This article delves into the statistical underpinnings of their struggles, offering a nuanced understanding of what ails this footballing giant.

Introduction

Once the epitome of footballing excellence, Barcelona's recent performances have left fans and pundits alike searching for answers. By examining key team stats, we can uncover the root causes of their decline.

Topic Analysis

1. Defensive Vulnerabilities

Barcelona's defensive stats have seen a significant downturn. Last season, they conceded an average of 1.2 goals per game in La Liga, a stark contrast to their heyday under Pep Guardiola. High-profile errors and a lack of cohesion at the back have been glaring issues.

2. Midfield Control Loss

The midfield, once Barcelona's engine room, has struggled to dominate games. Stats show a decrease in possession percentage and key passes per game, indicating a loss of control that was once their hallmark.

3. Overreliance on Individual Brilliance

With Lionel Messi's departure, the team's overreliance on individual moments of magic has been exposed. The stats reveal a drop in collective goal contributions, highlighting a systemic issue in attack.

Conclusion

Barcelona's struggles are multifaceted, rooted in defensive frailties, midfield inefficiencies, and an overreliance on individual talent. Addressing these issues statistically could pave the way for a resurgence.