Barcelona 4-0 Sevilla: 5 Talking Points and Tactical Analysis | La Liga 2019/20

#2 Barcelona’s quality masks a hint of collective deficiency

Messi popped up with a wonderful free-kick

Over the past couple of seasons, Barcelona have had their fair share of critics. Once hailed as one of the most team-oriented sides across the planet, the Blaugrana have slowly but surely shifted towards a more individual-oriented approach lately. And, that characteristic came to the fore against Sevilla.

For large parts of the game, the Blaugrana looked a little jaded and a bit off the pace. However, when presented with openings in the offensive third, they sprung to life and provided the requisite quality.

The first goal saw Suarez unfurl a majestic left-footed bicycle kick whereas the second goal was created by Arthur Melo’s sumptuous through-ball for Vidal.

Dembele called upon his dazzling dribbling abilities for the third while Messi also announced himself with a customary free-kick goal.

During the game, there were times when the hosts were overwhelmed by Sevilla, especially on the flanks where the visitors’ full-backs and wingers created instances of numerical superiority.

However, the Blaugrana were willing to bide their time and then sprinkle the game with individual brilliance.

And, while that may have been unthinkable a few years ago, that has become more of a norm nowadays.