5 players that could play key roles in Barcelona's treble push in the 2018/2019 season

#1 Lionel Messi

Messi holds the key to Barca's hopes for glory in the 2018/19 season

Another season of greatness beckons for La Pulga Atómica and in his hands rest Barcelona’s hopes of conquering Spain and Europe again.

Last season, the team in Valverde’s first season was more functional than creative. The Blaugrana had a hard time fashioning chances in its usual style. However, even this stodginess did not faze Leo as he scored 34 goals in 36 matches to almost singlehandedly drag the team to the La Liga title.

Messi produced another double-figure tally of goals and assists in the 2017/2018 season. He will once again be the difference between glory and ignominy for the Catalan side With the addition of Brazilian winger Malcolm and the full integration of Coutinho and Ousmane Dembele into the side, Messi’s importance will be more pronounced than ever this season.

Depending on how Valverde wishes to set up, Messi could play as the false 9 and be flanked by two of the aforementioned trio if Barca wants to go for speedy, high-octane play.

His ability to drop deep and pick magnificent passes to create scoring chances will also be of vital importance to the side especially in the big games where Coutinho might play in a more withdrawn central midfield role.

Whatever formation/tactic is employed, it goes without saying that Messi will be central to its success or failure. Simply put, if Barcelona wishes to achieve glory in the 2018/2019 season, its greatest ever player will be the deciding factor.