Introduction:
In the summer of 2021, the departure of Barcelona's star player, Lionel Messi, shook the world of football. The Catalan club's legend left after 21 years in its ranks, leaving behind a huge void that could not be easily filled. Barcelona faced a suffocating sporting and financial crisis, and went through a collapse that led to its decline in various competitions.
The Collapse Phase (2021-2022):
Disastrous sporting results:
Barcelona finished the 2021-2022 season in third place in the Spanish league, 13 points behind its rival Real Madrid, the champion.
It was eliminated from the Champions League group stage for the first time in 21 years.
It failed to win any title for the first time in 11 years.
Suffocating financial crisis:
The club's debts accumulated to more than one billion euros.
It was forced to cut players' salaries and terminate some of their contracts to alleviate the financial burden.
Lost many of the club's sponsors due to its declining results.
Loss of team identity:
Barcelona lost its compass after Messi's departure, and the team appeared lost on the pitch.
The coaches who followed him failed to fill Messi's void and impose a clear playing style.
A sense of frustration and pessimism prevailed among the club's fans.
The Resurgence Phase (2022-2024):
Administrative and technical changes:
Joan Laporta took over as president of the club in 2021 and began implementing a plan to rebuild the team.
Appointed Xavi Hernandez, the club's legend, as coach of the team in 2022.
Signed some young talented players, such as Gavi and Pedri, to strengthen the team's ranks.
Results gradually improve:
Barcelona finished second in the Spanish league in the 2022-2023 season, 3 points behind Real Madrid, the champion.
Reached the quarter-finals of the Champions League in the 2022-2023 season.
Won the Spanish Super Cup title in 2023.
The team spirit returns:
Barcelona began to regain its beautiful attacking style thanks to Xavi Hernandez's philosophy.
Cohesion and bonding appeared between the players on the pitch.
The fans' confidence in the rebuilding project returned.
Statistics:
Spanish League:
2021-2022: Third place (42 points)
2022-2023: Second place (73 points)
Champions League:
2021-2022: Group stage
2022-2023: Quarter-finals
Titles:
2022-2023: Spanish Super Cup
Conclusion:
Barcelona went through a difficult period after Messi's departure, but it has begun a journey of resurgence thanks to administrative and technical changes, gradually improving results, and the return of team spirit. The club is still far from regaining its former glory, but it has taken important steps in the right direction.
