5 Barcelona superstars who need to step up in LaLiga right now

Modified Oct 05, 2018 05:35 GMT

FC Barcelona v Boca Juniors - Joan Gamper Trophy — Barcelona defender - Gerard Pique

#3 Samuel Umtiti

FC Barcelona v Deportivo Alaves - La Liga — The Frenchman needs to reach his best to help Barcelona overcome their defensive blunders

Barcelona is a team well-known across the universe for its attacking prowess, intense pressing, and ball-circulating system, but they surprised everyone with their incredible defensive record in LaLiga last season.

The Catalans had the second-best defense throughout the campaign, conceding just 29 goals in 38 matches, and setting an unbelievable 36-game unbeaten record in the Spanish top flight. Samuel Umtiti in particular was a solid rock at the back, working hard to neutralise incoming attacks as well as providing rigidity and composure.

But following his heroics during the previous campaign, the Frenchman has struggled for form this season, putting up a couple of unconvincing performances, and failing to reach a similar level of impact in the Spanish top flight. The 24-year-old has been so sluggish, and has contributed to Barcelona's defensive woes this new term.

Although he is out injured at the moment, the Catalans will need him to regain his form when he returns from the sidelines, as they aim to compete for every trophy this season.

About the author

Jidonu is a European and international football news writer at Sportskeeda. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism and has around 7 years of previous experience working with the likes of Tribuna and SportRaba, Jidonu has a good eye for detail and has the ability to created cohesive articles, and reporting exploits have also led him to exclusively cover the 2018 FIFA World Cup in the past.

Jidonu’s tryst with football started after watching the 2002 FIFA World Cup final between Brazil and Germany, being mesmerized by Ronaldo and Ronaldinho. Barcelona philosophy and approach towards the game under Pep Guardiola further fueled the burgeoning love for the sport, and he has been a Culer ever since.

Unsurprisingly, Lionel Messi is his favorite player and is the one true GOAT for him over Cristiano Ronaldo. The 2022 FIFA World Cup final, where Messi's brace led to La Albiceleste lifting the cup left a lasting impact on him. His love for Messi also sees him follow Major League Soccer apart from Europe’s top five leagues.

In his free time, Jidonu raps and produces music, and also enjoys reading and swimming.

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Edited by Anthony Akatugba Jr.