Barcelona's defensive vulnerability has been a major concern for the club this season, with their conceding less than Real Madrid yet still ranking third in goals allowed. While Barcelona have conceded fewer than their rivals, they have struggled to keep clean sheets and have faced numerous attacking threats throughout the campaign.
One of the main reasons behind Barcelona's defensive issues is their lack of depth in the backline. The team has relied heavily on the performances of Gerard Pique, Samuel Umtiti, and Jordi Alba, who have all contributed significantly to the club's defensive efforts. However, injuries and suspensions have left the team vulnerable to opposition attacks, with key players like Lionel Messi, Neymar Jr., and Luis Suarez missing important matches.
Another factor that has impacted Barcelona's defense is their inability to cope with pressure from the opposing attack. The team has often found themselves under siege during high-pressure situations, which has led to costly mistakes and conceding goals. This has also been exacerbated by the fact that Barcelona play at home more frequently, making it easier for opponents to take advantage of their own weaknesses.
Despite these challenges, Barcelona have shown resilience and determination in their attempts to improve their defensive record. They have worked hard to strengthen their squad, signing new defenders like Emerson and Marc-André ter Stegen, as well as midfielders like Frenkie de Jong and Sergi Roberto. These signings have helped to provide some much-needed reinforcements and have improved the team's overall defensive capabilities.
In conclusion, while Barcelona have conceded fewer goals than Real Madrid, their defensive vulnerabilities remain a significant issue for the club. However, the team's willingness to adapt and improve shows that they are not giving up on their quest for success. With the right solutions in place, Barcelona could emerge as one of the top defenses in La Liga and compete for titles once again.