New home, new faces and need for European success for Barca in new season (preview)

Madrid (Spain), Aug 8 : As defending champions of La Liga, FC Barcelona, coached by Xavi Hernandez, will be the team to beat this season.

However, several factors could hinder Barcas title defense and their ambitions in Europe.

The primary point of discussion ahead of the new campaign is that Barca wont be hosting games at Camp Nou Stadium.Due to significant renovations, theyll play at the Olympic Stadium, which seats just under 56,000, far less than Camp Nous 99,000.

Consequently, many fans wont see games in person, and a running track around the field will distance players from fans, potentially affecting the home advantage.

The Camp Nou has always been a stronghold for Barca.

But with the Olympic Stadium not offering the same aura, coupled with potential pitch quality concerns, it may impact Barcas game play, a Xinhua report said.

For the first time since 2008, the team will miss Sergio Busquets, who, with Jordi Alba, has joined Inter Miami.

In their stead, Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu should cover, especially with Franck Kessies potential exit.

Inigo Martinez, arriving on a free transfer from Athletic Club Bilbao, is a top-notch central defender.

His left-footed nature should balance Barcas defense, though it might shift Jules Kounde to a less-preferred right-back position.

Gundogan, a proven talent, is poised to replace Busquets effectively, pairing with Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, and Gavi.Romeu will likely play a backup role.

However, the anticipated departure of Ousmane Dembele to Paris Saint Germain poses a challenge.Given Barcas financial constraints, replacing him with someone of equal caliber is tough.

The ideal scenario? Acquiring Bernardo Silva from Manchester City, but financial woes make it improbable.Relying on Raphinha seems more plausible, with Eze Abde, who shone at Osasuna last season, potentially stepping up.

Xavi hopes for Ansu Fatis resurgence, as relying solely on Robert Lewandowski isnt sustainable.The striker, turning 35 by Augusts end, showed signs of fatigue post-World Cup.

Moreover, after two consecutive early Champions League exits, advancing past the group stage is crucial for Barcas reputation and finances.The season promises added games, extensive travel, and more strain on players.

Xavis strategy remains consistent, emphasizing Barcas signature passing game.With Dembeles likely exit, a strong defense might be as crucial as an attacking prowess this season.

ak/