JAKARTA - While the shadow of Lionel Messi still haunts Camp Nou in Barcelona's La Liga opener last Sunday, Ronald Koeman's side have shown that there is new life after the Argentine's departure to PSG.
Bara were outstanding as Koeman's men showed they had a plan to win without Messi. Yes, the Blaugrana beat Real Sociedad 4-2.
Launching MARCA, Wednesday, August 18, the first important aspect of their performance was the collective effort of possession, in which 10 non-goalkeepers made major changes to thwart the threat of La Real. As a Barcelona player, Messi has on many occasions been relieved of this responsibility by his coach.
Barcelona's second goal of the night, scored by Martin Braithwaite, came when their high pressure through Eric Garcia saved Adnan Januzaj. Barca then broke the deadlock to score.
Martin Bracewaite pic.twitter.com/4YfjxbGIjy
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 15, 2021
In possession, Barcelona's form was equally impressive, as they created a series of key chances that were distributed among the attackers, instead of being attempted by Messi.
Griezmann stands outIf there is one player who exemplifies his team's all-action performance, it is Antoine Griezmann.
Even though he didn't score, Griezmann was a constant threat throughout the game. Apart from hitting the crossbar with a powerful shot, he also shows a high level of commitment to his team's defensive efforts.
!!1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ Barça appearances for @AntoGriezmann!👏👏👏 pic.twitter.com/MsqL0HamrC
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) August 15, 2021
Koeman concluded at the end of how his team aims to adapt without Messi this season.
"Our football can be more collective than ever," said Koeman.
"Of course we don't have players [like Messi] who decide the games themselves.
"This is a collective game."
Although the 2021/2022 season has just started, positive signs for Barcelona are already visible. Hopefully it doesn't slack mid-season.
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