A detailed analysis of how Ernesto Valverde transformed Barcelona

The key player in Valverde's tactics

Real Madrid v Barcelona - La Liga

Perhaps the key aspect of Valverde’s Barcelona is the freedom that is given to Lionel Messi. Left to his own devices as a floating presence alongside Luis Suarez, while the Suarez plays as a 9, Messi finds pockets of space that he wants to exploit. With Rakitic and Sergi Roberto offering the width on the right when Barcelona is in possession, it releases Messi to go hunting for where he can do damage - and it is precisely that liberty for the Argentine that makes Barcelona well structured, yet infinitely unpredictable, or even unstoppable, in the attack.

Valverde’s blend of balance and star quality makes them an interesting proposition for both domestic and European glory this season.