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#1 FC Barcelona
When Leo Messi himself says that he will try everything he can to bring the coveted Champions League trophy back to the Camp Nou after seeing Real Madrid win three in a row, it is quite simple to understand that Barcelona are one of the strongest contenders to win the title this year. Barça has had an inconsistent February, a distinct characteristic from all of their recent seasons. Even with a massive squad, manager Ernesto Valverde has failed to rotate the squad effectively, partly due to big fixtures and an extensive injury list.
In their first leg in France, Barcelona put up an uncharacteristic performance against Lyon. Even after taking 25 shots in the game, they failed to convert any of those chances. After two dull performances in front of the goal against Valladolid and Lyon, Lionel Messi took charge against Sevilla, completing a comeback at the Ramon Sanchez Pijuan with a hat-trick to his name and a delightful assist to Luis Suarez. This match was a testimony of Barcelona's dependence on their main man.
But with Arthur Melo expected to be back in the squad by the time Lyon visits Barcelona, and Messi back in form, Barcelona are expected to advance in this stage, and so have they done for numerous seasons in a row now. Barcelona have undoubtedly been inconsistent this season, but in knockout competitions like the Champions League, squad depth and experience plays a huge role, and hence they are clearly one of the strongest contenders.
