Three things Bayern Munich can learn from Barcelona’s 3-1 win over Napoli

An out-of-sync team of world-class players

Although Barcelona did not make an impression as a team throughout the 2019/20 season, it is still a team full of world-class players. Their attack can sometimes be devastatingly deadly. While Luis Suarez may be past his prime and Antoine Griezmann may need more time to settle into the Catalan squad, they are both great players on their day. It all orchestrated is of course Lionel Messi, who is still on top of his game and the best player in the world.

Frenkie de Jong is a fantastic midfielder and was great against Napoli. Players like Ivan Rakitic and Gerard Pique seem to be long past their prime, but they are also experienced veterans accustomed to knocking out Champions League games.

In a single knockout game, individual brilliance matters more than in any other game. Messi is the key to Barca’s attack, yes, but there are many game-winners among his teammates. Barcelona are a team that is out of sync most of the season, but if they are on top of their game, they can beat any team in a 90-minute game.

Defense remains the Achilles’ heel of Barcelona

Barcelona’s Achilles heel is their shaky defense. By defending 13 goals more than Real Madrid in the league, Barcelona’s defense has consistently struggled in the 2019/20 season.

While Napoli do not pose much of a threat, a team like Bayern will do so. The center-back duo of Barcelona, ​​Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet, can be exploited. Napoli often found runs behind the high-pressure defensive line and often came close to breaking free. Bayern will have more chances with their excellent attack and Barcelona will have to adjust how they defend.

Finally, it is important to note that Barcelona missed their deep-lying player Sergio Busquets against Napoli due to a suspension. He makes the team better in terms of control and defensive attributes.

Questions about the capabilities of Quique Setien

It’s a tough question, but one I believe needs to be asked. Quique Setien is 61 years old and has been a football manager since his hometown team Racing Santander in 2001. He has experience as head coach, much more than Hansi Flick, yet it is debatable whether he is meant to be a manager for the highest level of world football.

Although Setien has found success at most of the clubs he has managed, he has failed to make a direct impact at Barcelona. Since taking over from Setien in January, Barcelona have won just two – thirds of their league games, and it has been rumored that players have turned against him due to his inconsistent tactical choices. Against Hansi Flick, the man who brought Bayern Munich back, the Santander national teamman will face a serious challenge before he can tactically outsmart the Bayern coach.