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Barcelona have seen a number of events take place ever since the start of the 2021-22 season. With Lionel Messi leaving the club due to La Liga financial rules, the Spanish club have found it very difficult to cope in his absence.
The sacking of Ronald Koeman and the appointment of new manager Xavi has also had their effects on the team's performance this season. The club currently lie fifth in the La Liga table.
Barcelona will find it difficult this season
Barcelona are 15 points away from the top with one game in hand, a scenario we don't normally associate with the Catalan club. More than five teams are currently fighting for a place in the Champions League next season in La Liga. Hence, it is going to be a task for the Spanish giants to achieve a place in the top four.
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It has been an average season so far for the club and it would take a lot of effort for them to turn it around. Here, we take a look at their best players right now considering a minimum of 10 appearances this season.
Note: All stats are as per WhoScored
#5 Gerard Pique (6.88)
The responsibility of Gerard Pique has only increased more since the departure of Messi last summer. The Spanish centre-back has always been an important player for Barcelona. But his performances have become all the more crucial considering the club's current situation.
Pique is a fine defender courtesy of his height, strong physique, aerial abilities and the experience he has. He's in his 14th season with the Catalan club. He has a massive responsibility of leading the backline without expecting much from the attackers.
Despite that, Pique has done a decent job in the 2021-22 season. Barcelona have conceded a good number of goals but the Spaniard has the ability to turn it around for the Spanish giants. He will look to help them finish the season on a good note.
#4 Sergino Dest (6.98)
Much was made when the Spanish giants signed Sergino Dest from Ajax last season. The American defender has since struggled to stay true to expectations but has been a decent outlet so far in the 2021-22 campaign.
With the change in managers, Dest has seen himself play in different positions. He was more frequently used under Ronald Koeman but seems out of favor under current manager Xavi.
Injuries and recent suffering from Covid have restricted Dest from challenging for his place in the team. The American has been in decent form this season. But rumors suggest that Barcelona might be willing to offload him in the winter transfer window to make room for a no. 9.
#3 Sergio Busquets (6.98)
Barcelona have been blessed to have a player like Sergio Busquets play for them for 14 seasons now. The Spaniard is arguably one of the best defensive midfielders of the 21st century.
With his fantastic reading of the game, superb tackling and intercepting abilities, Busquets has been a delight to watch. At the age of 33, he's still going strong and remains a vital player for the Catalan club. He has had the most successful dribbles this season in the league with 93.3% successful dribbles.
With 43 successful tackles, he ranks fourth in this regard. He has made the second-most number of passes into the final third with 152 such passes this season.
Busquets' presence in midfield is very important if Barcelona are to qualify for the Champions League next season.
#2 Frenkie De Jong (7.09)
The Dutch midfielder receives a lot of criticism from Barcelona fans but there is no denying that he is vital to the club. His performances in midfield have been crucial to steadying the 2021-22 season after a poor start.
Frenkie De Jong is one of the most talented midfielders in La Liga right now. With his box-to-box abilities, the Dutchman is capable of dictating the tempo of the game. He has two goals and two assists to his name so far this season but there is scope for improvement.
On his day, De Jong can be a very difficult player to handle. Under the guidance of Xavi, the 24-year-old can grow into an amazing midfielder and hopefully a big player for the club.
#1 Memphis Depay (7.38)
It was a dream come true for Memphis Depay when he was able to sign for Barcelona in the summer transfer window from Lyon. Despite the club's struggles, the Dutchman has performed reasonably well this season.
With his directness and goal-scoring abilities, Depay has managed to score eight goals and register two assists in 16 appearances so far in the league. He has been able to draw fouls from defenders and has tried to keep some pressure up front.
With some more support in attack, Depay can surely be more productive in front of goal. Xavi will rely heavily on the Dutch forward for the remainder of the season to ensure Champions League football next season.
