The 2024/25 season of FC Barcelona has been a spectacle in terms of play, defying the expectations of many who considered it a transitional year under Hansi Flick. The team has demonstrated a visually appealing, vertical, and ultra-offensive style that has left fans in awe and rivals in constant tension.
However, not everything has been positive. Despite their impressive goal-scoring ability, Barça has shown an alarming defensive vulnerability. In total, the team has conceded 66 goals in 56 matches, translating to an average of 1.17 goals per match. This aspect has been crucial in their elimination from the Champions League, where the defense became a Achilles' heel.
❌ Champions League Slips Away Due to Conceded Goals
In the semifinals, Barça was forced to deal with a total of 7 goals conceded in their matchup against Inter, costing them a spot in the final, an opportunity not seen in a decade. Despite scoring 43 goals in 14 matches in the European tournament, their defense was not up to par, allowing 24 goals in the group and knockout stages.
In the league phase, the team also had a concerning defensive performance, being the team that conceded the most goals among the eight that advanced to the round of 16. Of the 24 teams that participated in the group stage, only Celtic and Manchester City surpassed Barça in goals conceded.
The analysis of the season reveals that while the attack has been the best in the tournament, the defense has left much to be desired. In their last three Champions matches, Flick's team conceded 10 goals, reflecting a lack of solidity in critical moments.
⚽ Comparison of Barça's Defense in the Last Two Seasons
Comparing with the previous season, Barça's defensive performance has been similar, albeit slightly worse. In 2023/24, Xavi Hernández's team finished the season with 69 goals conceded in 53 matches. This year, the team has conceded 66 goals in 56 matches, raising serious doubts about the team's ability to compete at the highest level.
FC Barcelona has proven to be a formidable attacking team, but their defense has been a weak point that needs addressing if they aspire to reclaim glory in the Champions League. Fans hope the coaching staff finds solutions to strengthen the backline and aim for the most important titles in the future.