To be honest, as a Barcelona fan I was really disappointed when they played their games at the start of the season. plus, a lousy game in the Champions League. I can understand that, because after all Xavi has just rebuilt Barcelona's strength. it will be very difficult, if you hope that Barcelona will immediately transition into a very tough team. evidently, Barcelona was eliminated from the Champions League. also, the wins that Barcelona achieved at the start of the season, mostly from luck. I mean, they played badly but were lucky to get full points.
Well, after the post-world cup. something has changed from Barcelona's playing pattern. in particular, when they had an El Clasico match in the Supercopa de Espana event. my point, Gavi is calmer playing, it seems he is starting to mature in terms of the game, Dembele is also getting more mature, and the most vital thing in my opinion is the role of the two Pivots. since De Jong was paired with Busquest. the system that Barcelona is running looks more structured, combinations and transitions between players are starting to show their rhythm. I'm quite happy to see the rhythm of Barcelona's game this time, it's only natural that they are predicted to win the La Liga, Copa Del Rey and Europa League trophies. but it seems, Barcelona must work hard to realize their mission.
No need to be surprised, because after the world cup they experienced a change in the quality of players. They bought a lot of players which was very beyond everyone's predictions. Before the world cup although they already had some new players, they were in a period of adaptation and indeed they had not yet formed for the UCL. But if they then fail at UEFA then indeed they have not been able to play better in europe. Maybe they are good in La Liga but they have to work hard again and maybe next season they can prove that.