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

#3 Samuel Umtiti

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.