The value of an extraordinary league title for Barca
Barça have 'only' won 26 league titles in its hundred plus year history. That's not so many. Madrid have won 35. A substantial difference between the two greats of Spanish football. The history of the Blaugrana in this competition is written as a before and after Johan Cruyff. Of Cruyff the coach, because Cruyff the player only won one title, in 1973-74, the season of his debut. Since the Dutchman's arrival on the bench, Barça have become a champion team. A total of 16 La Liga titles have been won by the club in the last 32 years. Only 10 titles in the previous seven decades. The difference is massive. That's why Cules born since the Dream Team have become accustomed to triumphs.
Xavi, in his playing days, also won many Ligas. As many as 8 in 17 seasons. He experienced great moments, but also an enormous journey in the desert at the beginning of the 21st century until the arrival of Joan Laporta. Xavi, more than anyone, values the importance of winning a league title. Because it is the title that gives stability to the club. The title on which, subsequently, a team can build a team that becomes champion of everything. That is what he intends to do with his Barça. That's why he describes this league as extraordinary, which today moves a little closer despite the draw with Girona at the Spotify Camp Nou. The Blaugrana are already 13 points clear of Madrid with 10 games to go and can consider themselves virtual champions.
Barça have started the countdown to add league number 27 to their trophy cabinet. A league that has a lot of merit, coming from where we have come from. A league that is highly valued at the club and in the dressing room. Even if its importance is downplayed, possibly because of the failures in Europe and the painful KO in the Cup against Madrid. But being 13 points ahead of Los Blancos is precisely what demonstrates the importance of this title. Barça have shown extraordinary solvency in this competition. Only two defeats and three draws (including Monday's) in 28 games. Only 9 goals conceded.
The Blaugrana have started to count down the matches. Let's not expect brilliant football any more. Just keep adding points until the title is mathematical. The effort has already been made. Now it remains to manage the advantage intelligently and celebrate the title as soon as possible. With the little energy that remains...
