It is said the great manager Bela Guttmann refused to manage a club for more than three years on the basis that it would be impossible to maintain their hunger. By his own creed the current Barcelona side are past their sell by date.
Most would vehemently protest at such a notion and consider it absurdly myopic. Yet when looking at the season one cannot escape the truth that this years Barcelona look some way short of last years vintage. Injuries and a poor excuse for a pre season have played a part but there may be deeper running problems. The Nou Camp has been a sea of serenity for three years but storm clouds are gathering.
Yesterday’s 4-0 victory over Rayo Valacano was typical of their imperious home form, yet away from their surroundings they have struggled for results. They have struggled to break down those stubborn defences as well as contriving to throw away leads. All of which leaves them three points behind Madrid having played a game more. Such a gap this early in the season is hugely significant.
Lionel Messi and Javier Mascherano aside it is difficult to think of another Blaugrana player operating at the same level as last year. Villa`s problems are well documented and unless he starts scoring on a regular basis he will only fall deeper into the mire, particularly in light of his 30th birthday this weekend. However it is the form of one man in particular that will concern Guardiola.
Xavi Hernandez is the finest central midfielder of his generation and perhaps the finest passer of all time. For the last four years he has played to an almost unprecedented level of consistency and taken the art of the playmaker to new heights. He has simultaneously been the orchestrator of one of the finest football symphonies ever seen as well as the brain and lungs of the team. His decline was inevitable someday and though he continues to play to a high standard, it will be difficult for him to reach those exalted heights on regular basis.
His importance to the team which has always been equal to Messi`s is being brutally felt at the moment. He may not receive the physical attention dished out to Messi and Ronaldo but he works harder than both and crucially is past the age of 30. Those creaking legs are feeling the effects of years of superhuman endeavor.
To find another Xavi is impossible. Cesc Fabregas is monstrously talented but his best work will always been done further up the field and will never replicate his compatriots role, and neither will the gifted Thiago.
From a defensive view Abidal looks to be in decline whilst Alves has thus far been under whelming. Carlos Puyol presence will always enhance the team but he is now as fragile as Ledley King. Like John Terry he remains the heart of the team but his best days are now consigned to history.
It is ironic that Guardiola has the advantage of a stronger squad this year as well as several players who had their first summer off in four years. Yet all this has disrupted the rhythm of the Catlan machine and left many of its parts looking ring rusty.
Last year Mourinho spoke of how Barcelona would struggle to replace Xavi and Puyol, and Ferguson when quizzed on the team’s greatness spoke of how they were going through a great cycle. When deciphering their messages you come to same conclusion. They both accepted they would not overcome Barcelona last year but also that their celestial star would burn itself out. Messi himself acknowledged he was a part of a special team and that they had to make the most of a special generation. Barcelona current form is a surprise but take a step back and you accept of the impossibility of maintaining their ethereal standards.
Guardiola`s troops may not have lost their hunger but complacency and laxness are creeping in. The looming prospect of a must win Classico should reignite the old passions. At present Barca look increasingly reliant on moments of brilliance in particular from Messi. They need to rediscover their collective ethos quickly to stand any chance of emulating last year’s achievements.
Introducing the neat little app that’ll pay you to view content tailored to your interests:
ThisisFutbol.com are seeking new writers to join the team! If you’re passionate about football, drop us a line at “thisisfutbol.com@snack-media.com” to learn more.