Barcelona had to endure a heartbreaking exit from the Champions League after the 2nd leg with Inter ended in a 7-6 aggregate defeat. Hansi Flick and his men were less than 3 minutes away from a Champions League final, but some individual mistakes and a lack of luck caused Inter to equalise and take the lead in extra time. Although Culers around the world are justly disappointed in the result, this is just the start of a golden era of FC Barcelona that will take the club back to the very top it was in its glory days.
A new era under Hansi Flick
Barça might not have won the treble this season, but when you put things into context, this season is a huge success. Before the season, no one in world football had thought that Barcelona would become a big force in Europe, considering their recent record in European competitions. However, Hansi Flick has completely transformed Barcelona after his arrival. For years, Culers were hoping for a team that always wants to attack and is confident. For the past decade we saw Barça crack under pressure, specially under European nights.
Under the German manager, we saw a Barcelona that is hungry for titles. Barcelona that did not give up no matter what the situation is. Whenever Hansi Flick’s men went a goal or two down, their heads didn’t drop. Every player on the pitch believed they can win until the last minute. This mentality help Barcelona to come back numerous times throughout the season. The team made a comeback against Benfica, AtlĂ©tico Madrid, and Real Madrid. The most recent one against Inter, where Barça couldn’t hold the lead.
What does the future hold
Barcelona has the youngest squad in La Liga and one of the youngest in Europe. The average age of the squad is 24.1. The future for these youngsters is very bright in my opinion. This squad might have been eliminated from the Champions League, but it is a trophy they will win many times in their careers. Lamine Yamal is destined to win a lot of trophies in his career and the Ballon d’Or multiple times. The kid is already a contender for the award at the age of 17. Players like Pedri, Gavi, Balde, Cubarsi, Gerard Martin, Marc Bernal, Marc Casado, Fermin Lopez and many more have only started their careers. They will only improve their already world-class talent, and this Barcelona squad will dominate world football for many years to come.
Ballon d’Or hopes for Barcelona still alive?
After the Champions League exit, there are rumours that Raphina‘s Ballon d’Or is now lost. I would argue otherwise, as the Brazilian still has a Ballon d’Or worthy season. He is the top scorer of the Champions League with 13 goals and 54 goal contributions this season so far. Raphinha has been on a redemption arc this season. The fans wanted him out of the club in the previous season, and Nico Williams was being cheered to replace him. Now Raphinha is a leader for Barcelona and their big game player. Stories like these are what make a great narrative to win the Ballon d’Or.
