Barcelona’s 2017 squad was a force to be reckoned with, boasting some of the best players in the world. Led by the legendary Lionel Messi, this team achieved great success on and off the pitch, captivating fans with their mesmerizing football. In this article, we’ll delve into the star-studded lineup of FC Barcelona in 2017 and explore the reasons behind their dominance.
The Barcelona Squad 2017: A Dream Team
The 2017 Barcelona squad was a blend of seasoned veterans and exciting young talents, forming a perfect balance between experience and innovation. Here’s a breakdown of the key players who made this team so formidable:
Attack
- Lionel Messi: The undisputed leader and arguably the greatest footballer of all time. Messi’s dribbling skills, precise passing, and clinical finishing made him a constant threat to opposing defenses.
- Luis Suarez: A lethal striker with exceptional movement, Suarez formed a formidable partnership with Messi and Neymar. His aggressive pressing and clinical finishing made him a nightmare for defenders.
- Neymar Jr.: The Brazilian magician possessed incredible pace, trickery, and a remarkable eye for goal. Neymar’s dazzling footwork and ability to create scoring opportunities made him a crucial asset for Barcelona.
- Gerard Deulofeu: This young winger showcased his speed, agility, and impressive dribbling skills, contributing significantly to the team’s attacking prowess.
- Paco Alcacer: Although not a regular starter, Alcacer was a valuable squad member who provided a reliable scoring option when called upon.
Midfield
- Sergio Busquets: The defensive midfielder was a master of controlling the tempo of the game. His exceptional reading of the game, tactical intelligence, and ability to intercept passes made him a vital component of Barcelona’s midfield.
- Ivan Rakitic: A hard-working midfielder with a knack for scoring goals, Rakitic’s technical ability and creativity added depth to the Barcelona midfield.
- Andres Iniesta: The Spanish legend, known for his elegant passing and vision, remained a vital part of the team. His ability to dictate the flow of the game and create scoring opportunities for his teammates was unmatched.
- Denis Suarez: The talented midfielder displayed exceptional dribbling skills and passing range, making him a valuable asset off the bench.
- Sergi Roberto: A versatile player who could operate as a midfielder or full-back, Roberto’s work rate and tactical flexibility made him an essential member of the squad.
Defence
- Javier Mascherano: The experienced defender provided a strong defensive presence and a steady presence at the back. His ability to win tackles, clear the danger, and distribute the ball effectively made him a key player.
- Gerard Pique: A dominant defender with a strong aerial presence and an impressive passing range. Pique was a key player in Barcelona’s defensive line, forming a strong partnership with Mascherano.
- Jordi Alba: A lightning-fast left-back with exceptional attacking instincts. Alba’s overlapping runs and ability to deliver pinpoint crosses made him a significant attacking threat.
- Samuel Umtiti: The young French defender impressed with his speed, tackling ability, and composure on the ball. His strong defensive presence and ability to read the game made him an important member of the squad.
- Lucas Digne: The left-back provided competition for Jordi Alba, offering a valuable backup option with his strong defensive skills and ability to join the attack.
Goalkeeper
- Marc-André ter Stegen: A modern-day goalkeeper with exceptional shot-stopping abilities and excellent distribution. Ter Stegen was a reliable figure between the sticks, providing a solid foundation for Barcelona’s defense.
The Barcelona Squad 2017: A Dominant Force
The 2017 Barcelona squad was a dominant force in Spanish and European football. Their fluid attacking style, intricate passing, and relentless pressing made them a joy to watch and a nightmare to play against.
“This Barcelona side was a dream team,” says Juan Carlos, a renowned Spanish football journalist. “They had everything; the individual talent, the collective understanding, and the tactical flexibility to dominate any team in the world.”
The team’s dominance was reflected in their impressive trophy cabinet. In 2017, Barcelona won:
- La Liga: Barcelona clinched their 24th La Liga title with an impressive record of 90 points.
- Copa del Rey: They defeated Deportivo Alaves 3-1 in the final, securing their 30th Copa del Rey trophy.
Despite their success, the 2017 Barcelona squad wasn’t without its challenges. The departure of Neymar Jr. to Paris Saint-Germain in 2017 was a significant blow, disrupting the established attacking trio of Messi, Suarez, and Neymar. Despite this setback, the team remained competitive and continued to challenge for titles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the most memorable moment for Barcelona in 2017?
Barcelona’s 2017 Copa del Rey final victory against Deportivo Alaves was a memorable moment, with Luis Suarez scoring a brace to lead his team to victory.
Why did Neymar leave Barcelona in 2017?
Neymar left Barcelona for Paris Saint-Germain in a record-breaking transfer deal. His move was driven by a desire for a bigger role and a higher salary.
What was the biggest challenge for Barcelona in 2017?
The biggest challenge for Barcelona in 2017 was the departure of Neymar Jr. This loss disrupted the team’s attacking flow and left a void in their creative prowess.
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Conclusion
The 2017 Barcelona squad was a true testament to the power of individual talent, collective spirit, and strategic brilliance. This dream team left an unforgettable mark on the world of football, inspiring generations of fans with their mesmerizing performances and captivating style of play.