5 Barcelona players who have improved under Ernesto Valverde this season

#4 Andre Gomes

Gomes has been a shining star for the Blaugrana this season

Forget what the clueless Twitter boo boys are always saying, there has been a marked improvement in the performances of the Portuguese international midfielder this season.

Under former manager Luis Enrique, Gomes was a figure for derision at the Nou Camp as fans who had been spoiled by the majestic performances of midfield maestros like Xavi, Andreas Iniesta and to a lesser extent, Thiago Alcantara was less than impressed by the gangling ex-Valencia player’s displays.

Lacking confidence and often used in a variety of positions that did not fit in with his specific skill set, Gomes alongside former Valencia teammate Paco Alcacer looked out of a place in a struggling Barca team.

Now rejuvenated under Valverde’s astute management and playing in his favored central midfield role, he is showing the composure, driving runs from midfield and intelligent displays that were his hallmark during his time at the Mestalla.

I genuinely do not understand what some people have against André Gomes. Last season, the entire MF was a shitshow and he suffered. Now, under EV, he's a completely different player with so much potential. It's a new year, drop your baggage. Not too late to get on the bandwagon.

— Sameer (@Sameer_R13) January 21, 2018

He is now preferred to Nou Camp favorite Denis Suarez and will be a key man in the run in as Barca look to do the treble once again.