5 Ways Barcelona can improve next season

#4 Buy a Left-back

Jordi Alba has really struggled at times without a proper back-up this season.

When Jordi Alba joined Barcelona from Valencia for €14 million in 2012, few would have expected him to go on and become one of the world's best left-back. This season alone, he has provided 13 assists and scored 3 goals across all competitions. Defensively Alba has been rock solid. He makes 1.1 tackles and 1.6 interceptions per game. He has been dribbled past just 0.8 times this season and clears the ball 1.6 times every game. But with football seasons stretching over 60 games every year, it is necessary that every player should be backed by a strong player from the bench.

So when Lucas Digne left for Everton at the start of the season, it was clear that Barcelona needed a back-up. But Valverde decided to put trust on the duo of La Masia graduates Juan Miranda and Cucurella. Unfortunately, Cucurella left for Eibar on loan and Miranda struggled to play at such a high level. So at times when Valverde decided to rest Alba, he brought on Roberto or Semedo to play at left back. Given both these players were playing on their weaker foot they found it hard to put crosses in the box or provide any defensive solidity at the back. This forced Valverde too even go with a back 3 in a few of the League games.

So signing a left back must be of the highest priority for Barcelona in this transfer window. Real Betis's Junior Firpo, Athletico's Philipe Luiz, Bayern's Alaba or even ex-Barca B player Grimaldo of Benfica should be the players the board should look for.