It's time for Barça's superstars to take centre stage

It's time for Barça's superstars to take centre stage

L. Miguelsanz

Subdirector de SPORT

Setién, en un entrenamiento con el Barça
Setién, en un entrenamiento con el Barça | sport

This is the moment of truth. This week isn't just about the present but also the immediate future of FC Barcelona. They need to produce something special in the Champions League to save a season which has been significant for all the wrong reasons: injuries, changing a coach in the middle of the season and dealing with a coronavirus outbreak.

Barça must join the elite sides in Europe because anything else would be considered a disaster. They are favourites against Napoli and Setien claims his side are in top form. However, whilst his decisions might help the team, these matches are won or lost by the superstar names out on the pitch. Barça have plenty of those, including the best player in the world. It's them and them alone who must prove they are capable of reclaiming their throne in Europe.

THE KIDS CAN HELP

The new format of the Champions League should help Barça. One-off matches are often decided by the best players but injuries are also punished more harshly too. That is when you'll need an injection of youth, belief and a desire to prove themselves on the biggest stage. Ansu Fati and Riqui Puig will be key to the team's progression and success. With Barça's stars and youth prospects, they have enough quality to not only get past Napoli but also to go far in this competition.

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