Tough challenges await Barcelona as 2014 draws to a difficult close
Barcelona have spent the November international break with their fingers crossed, hoping their players return from their matches with their respective countries fit and ready for the next four weeks; hoping that they'll have everyone in top form as 2014 draws to a close. Barca will then either go into Christmas with renewed confidence in Luis Enrique's project or with the fear that the new year may have to mean more changes.
And it's a difficult calendar the club face over the coming weeks in all three compatitions. Some matches are expected to be easier than others - such as the Copa del Rey fixtures - but there are important matches too, for example the Champions League clash with PSG. In the league, after defeats to Real Madrid and Celta Vigo, there is no margin for error.
The incorporation of Luis Suarez, though, has without doubt strengthened the side and has enabled the front three of dreams to at last come together. But that shouldn't hide the fact Suarez, Neymar and Lionel Messi are still adjusting to how to play with each other. That is one of the reasons Barca went into the international break in a sea of doubts.
TESTS
Having been defeated by PSG and Madrid, it has been demonstrated that Luis Enrique still has work to do, especially in midfield.
Balancing the centre of the pitch, the zone where the 'Great Barca' excelled, is as important as getting the best out of the Messi-Neymar-Suarez attack. It is fundamental. The defence still needs work, too, despite the rapid adaption of Claudio Bravo and Jeremy Mathieu.
These are the 'new challenges' Barca are going to be facing:
LIGA: The first test of fire, on Saturday 22, is against Unai Emery's Sevilla. The Basque coach has built a solid side and the Andalucians remain in the running at the top of the table. Loanees Denis Suarez and Gerard Deulofeu are constantly improving. Eight days later, at the Mestalla, an in-form Valencia will be waiting. A week after that, it's the Catalan derby against Espanyol at Camp Nou. The year then ends with a difficult trip to Getafe and a home match against bottom of the table Cordoba.
CHAMPIONS LEAGUE: Even though the win against Ajax ensured Barca's progression to the next stage of the competition, there remains a red mark around the date December 10. That is when PSG come to Camp Nou in what should be a battle for top spot in the group. Before then, though, Barcelona travel to Apoel Nicosia on November 25, a game they'll also need to win if they want to claim top spot.
COPA DEL REY: And then there are the two matches which should be more simple, on paper, but also come with air of danger: the two legged tie against Huesca. The first match, away from home, is on December 3 and comes in the middle of matches against Valencia and Espanyol. The return leg is at Camp Nou on December 16. Qualification to the next round is an obligation for Barcelona. They have to win.
