Barcelona 3-4 Real Betis - 5 Talking Points, LaLiga 2018/19

#2 Barcelona's erratic form (and defence) continues

Messi's return did not go according to plan

Barca had sensational LaLiga campaign last time, as they lost just one game in the league during their stroll to the title. Their consistency was relentless, but the same cannot be said for the this season.

Ernesto Valverde's men have lost two league games already, and have drawn a further three more. Their performances have not been as good either, and the opponents have had much more joy against their defence. Valverde desperately needs to improve their defence, as a staggering 13 sides have conceded more goals than them. This number is scandalous, and their backline needs to be tightened urgently.

Their bad days seemed to be beyond them, as they were on a nine-game unbeaten streak in all competitions prior to this one. But perhaps the complacency proved to be their downfall against Real Betis. Fortunately for them, the teams below them are not winning each week either, but it won't be long before one starts to do it.