Three takeaways from Barcelona’s win over Napoli

A statement win

Barcelona needed a win like the one they got against Napoli. Results in LaLiga may be improving but it’s in Europe where they would be tested.

On this occasion, they passed with flying colors and showed they are on their way back and on the right path.

"“We have not been competing in Europe at the level a club like Barca should be,” Pique told reporters. “[But now] we have gone back to our origins, something we maybe had stopped doing recently. It’s a message for everyone, for us and for people on the outside, that little by little we’re on our way back. We’re on the right path.” Source: ESPN"

It was an all-around team performance. From defense to midfield to attack, everything seemed to click.

Players who were linked with a move away in January have stepped up their game and did well against Napoli with Sergiño Dest being a prime example.

In some respects, the final score flattered Napoli as Barcelona were wasteful at times, especially when their pressing forced the Italians to give the ball away in their own half.

While LaLiga may be out of reach, winning the Europa League may be within their grasp. Assuming their performances continue to improve, there is no reason why Barcelona shouldn’t be seen as one of the favorites to win it.

Hindsight is 20/20 and if there is anything to nitpick about this Barcelona under Xavi is the “what-if” of where they would be had Joan Laporta sacked Ronald Koeman before the start of the season and appointed the former Barça legend as manager.