6 times. That is how many times FC Barcelona has won La Liga in the past 8 years.It is truly astonishing given how evenly matched they used to be on paper against Real Madrid C.F. Let us also not forget the 2 trebles they have won as well. Barcelona FC are truly a force to be reckoned with and it is not just the presence of Lionel Messi that makes me say that. The trident seems unstoppable. Luis Suarez has grabbed the Pichichi and the European Golden Boot, breaking the Ronaldo-Messi hold on it. Neymar has emerged as a true superstar and may be the first player other Messi or Ronaldo to win the Ballon D'or since 2008. Andres Iniesta continues to stun. Turan, Rakitic, Roberto, Busquests form a brilliant midfield. The defence may be getting a little old but they are still one of the best in the world and 2 world class goalkeepers in Ter Stegen and Bravo certainly helps their case. Yes, it was proven they are not invincible. They were knocked out of the Champions League by Atletico Madrid. They lost 3 consecutive matches in La Liga, almost losing the championship in the process. Let us not forget that they have played more matches than any of their rivals in the past year. They were a tired batch and I think that they can be forgiven the slip up. True teams are defined by how well they bounce back and Barcelona bounced back in stunning fashion. 24 goals and 5 clean sheets in their last 5 matches. Come on! For long it has been thought that Lionel Messi is the reason for Barca's success but his injury absence at the beginning of the season proved otherwise. Neymar and Suarez stepped in spectacular fashion, ably supported by El Haddadi (another star on the rise). The defense held up well. The transfer news is looking good for Barca as well. With Suarez, Neymar and Ter Stegen set to stay, the team looks as settled as ever. And with Barcelona targeting Paul Pogba, Riyad Mahrez and Adam Traore (all of whom are hot properties in the world at the moment) in the upcoming transfer season, Barcelona look set to strengthen their already superstar squad. I predict another treble next season unless and until things go terribly wrong which seems highly unlikely. I will be back with another blog soon. Adios!!
