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Barcelona's decline over the last few years has been quite noticeable. This season though, that has reached another height. No one has been able to paper the cracks efficiently following the departure of Lionel Messi. As a result, the Blaugrana have been badly exposed, and are currently enduring one of their worst campaigns ever.
For the first time in 17 years, Barcelona will feature in the Europa League after finishing third in their UEFA Champions League group. Xavi Hernandez, who recently replaced Ronald Koeman as manager, has been pulling the strings to get the team back on track. However, that has proved to be a gargantuan task thus far.
There hasn't been any drastic changes in terms of results. However, the former Barcelona midfielder appears to be steering the team in the right direction. In fact, considering what we've witnessed in recent weeks, it could only be a matter of time before the Blaugrana return to where they belong.
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In the absence of players like Messi, Luis Suarez and Antoine Griezmann, Barcelona will need others to step up and lead their charge for revival. On that note, here's a look at five such players:
#5 Ferran Jutgla
The 22-year-old Ferran Jugtla has been making waves with his performances in Barcelona's youth system. He got a rare opportunity to represent Barcelona during the Liga clash with Elche last weekend.
Despite making his first start with the senior team, the Spaniard proved to be better in the striking role than Memphis Depay and Luuk de Jong.
Ferran Jutgla wasted no time in making his impact felt. He scored early into the game, but it was ruled out for offside. He later put the Blaugrana ahead in the 16th minute, converting an Ousmane Dembele cross. Throughout his time on the pitch, the 22-year-old was a huge threat to the opposition defence.
His movement, positioning and goalscoring instincts are simply what Barcelona need at the moment. There's no doubt he could make a difference for the team going forward.
#4 Abde Ezzalzouli
Abde Ezzalzouli was promoted into Barcelona's senior team by Xavi last month. It's incredible to see how he has fared in the last few weeks. Ezzalzouli has scored once in seven league games for the club thus far.
What makes the winger stand out is his ability to take the game to the opposition defence without fear. He tears them apart to create something for his team. His dribbling, pace and link-up play are sensational, and he seems to have a really bright future ahead of him.
#3 Dani Alves
Dani Alves returned to Barcelona this summer to help build up the upcoming generation. It looks like he has come at just the right time. With his experience, hard-working spirit and winning mentality, the legendary right-back should bring a lot to the team and play an influential role in its revival.
Despite being 38, the Brazilian has shown no signs of slowing down yet. He was one of the best performers when he represented Barcelona in a recent friendly clash with Newell's Old Boys. His understanding of the club's core principles was on display throughout the game, as he contributed immensely to attack and defence.
Alves will be able to feature in the Blaugrana's official games starting in January, when he gets registered with the club. Alongside other veterans, the Brazilian is expected to play a key role in guiding and unleashing the next generation of superstars at Camp Nou.
#2 Gavi
Gavi has been arguably the best Barcelona player since the campaign kicked off. The midfielder proved just how incredibly talented he is with his performance against Elche at the weekend. He scored a sensational solo goal, and produced several eye-catching moments.
The 17-year-old was named the man of the match for his fabulous display in the game. It was just another day in the office for the young Spaniard. He has already racked up 21 appearances for Barcelona so far this season, impressing everyone.
#1 Ansu Fati
Ansu Fati was assigned the legendary number 10 jersey vacated by Lionel Messi, which speaks volumes of how much faith Barcelona have in him. The attacker has proven to be a highly reliable figure in front of goal, and is well positioned to become the next face of the club.
Fati has bagged four goals and one assist in eight appearances for Barcelona across competitions this season. The winger is currently sidelined due to injury, but is expected to be back in action after the turn of the year.
It goes without saying that Ansu Fati's presence would help Barcelona address their goalscoring challenges. With the 19-year-old running riot in attack, the Blaugrana will likely progress quicker in their revival mission this season.
