AppId is over the quota
After Barcelona was systematically taken down by Bayern Munich in the Champions League semifinals, it was clear the club needed a boost. Not a major overhaul, but one fresh face capable of revitalizing the squad next season. Neymar is that player.
The Brazilian was an extremely coveted commodity before Barcelona was able to sign him to a five-year contract. It was exactly the type of statement move the La Liga champions needed to make to provide some support for Lionel Messi.
Bayern Munich went on to win the Champions League title after knocking out Barcelona. For Barca, the lopsided defeat (7-0 aggregate) was an example of what can happen when Messi isn't in top form or is dealing with injuries.
The Argentine international started the first leg but failed to make anywhere near his usual impact. With the club down 4-0 and a lingering hamstring issue holding him back, Barcelona decided not to risk him in the second leg and was shut out again.
Barca's midfield is tremendous, led by Andres Iniesta and Xavi, who has shown few signs of slowing down as he approaches his mid-30s. Yet when Messi isn't around to provide the finishing touch on their pinpoint passes, the attack hasn't been nearly as efficient.
That's where Neymar will come into play. He will provide the club with the second forward it needs to take some pressure off Messi and make the attack more consistent as a whole. And he's already looking forward to the opportunity, per Goal.com:
A little more from Neymar: "I have butterflies in my stomach to play with Messi and other amazing footballers at Barcelona." #hypervenom
— Goal.com (@goal_intl) May 28, 2013
In recent years, opponents knew at least half the battle was containing Messi. If they could keep him off the scoresheet, they had a good chance to get a result. Adding Neymar to the mix will make the defensive task far more difficult.
The superstar established himself as a world-class talent at Santos and with the Brazilian national team. His ability to dribble around defenders, paired with great pace and elite finishing skills, make him a nightmare to defend.
But when you consider the defenders will still be forced to worry about Messi first, Neymar becomes even more dangerous as he prepares for his first season at Camp Nou.
It works in reverse, too. Messi should remain the focal point of the attack, but opposing back lines won't be able to place such a large emphasis on slowing him down. This will lead to more space for him to work his magic, and every football fan knows about the awe-inspiring plays he can make in space.
Make no mistake—there will probably be a transition period early next season as Neymar and Messi build chemistry. They are two players capable of terrific individual play, but the path to success for Barcelona is teamwork between the two star strikers.
Once they strike the right balance, the Barca attack is going to be virtually unstoppable at certain times. With a midfield that controls possession and two elite finishers, plenty of back lines will be at their mercy.
Adding Neymar was the perfect move for Barcelona. His connection with Messi will be a sight to behold.
0 commentaires:
Enregistrer un commentaire