Are FC Barcelona back?

Neymar and Messi

Once upon a time, not so long ago, Barcelona were the number one team on the planet. Their dominance really began in the 08/09 season where they lifted the UEFA Champions League, LA Liga and the Copa del Rey. In other words, they completed the treble. Following this incredible fete, Barcelona went on to win another Champions League, 3 LA Liga titles, a Copa del Rey, 2 European Super Cups and 2 FIFA Club World Cups. Simply astonishing. However, since last winning the Champions League, Barcelona have lost that fear factor that was once imposed in all the oppositions hearts.

After being humiliated against Bayern Munich (who went on to win the competition) in a 7-0 aggregate semi-final defeat, the FC Barcelona reign over football came to an abrupt end in the 12/13 campaign. This was then followed by a season where they lost the Copa del Rey to Real Madrid, finished second to Atletico Madrid after failing to beat them at the Camp Nou on the last day (drew 1-1) and were knocked out in the quarter final stage of the Champions League at the hands of Atletico Madrid. This was an all time low for Barcelona, which ended with manager Gerardo Martino being replaced with former player, Luis Enrique.

The goalkeeping and central defender positions at Barcelona have been a major weak point in the otherwise very strong Barcelona outfit. Since his employment Enrique has got rid of the feeble Victor Valdes between the sticks, and replaced him with Chilean Claudio Bravo and German starlet Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The retirement of long-time captain and servant, Carles Puyol, resulted in Luis Enrique signing Jeremy Mathieu from Valencia, and out of favour former Arsenal captain, Thomas Vermaelen. The defensive signings have proved pivotal with Barcelona yet to concede a goal in any competition so far this season.

Furthermore, Barcelona have added to their already formidable attacking force. They replaced former Arsenal man Francesc Fabregas, with Croatian playmaker Ivan Rakitic from Sevilla. Enrique continued his summer spending by getting his hands on the goal hungry striker Luis Striker, for €81 million from Liverpool (who is still serving his four month ban). After claiming 16 points from a possible 18, scoring 17 and conceding 0, Barcelona have really sent a message to the football world, announcing their return (perhaps) to old form.

Article contributed by: Kevin Santos

Twitter: @kevin5996