Defensive Woes: FC Barcelona’s Worst Month in 124 Years

The FC Barcelona season has become one to forget, particularly in the defensive aspect. Xavi Hernandez’s team, once one of the best defenses in Europe, is now posting unrecognizable statistics. Revealed by RAC1, this data highlights one of the major sporting problems for Barcelona this season, as January 2024 has become the worst month in the club’s 124-year history, surpassing the 18 goals conceded in March 1930.

An Irremediable Concern Upon returning from the Christmas break, the Terrassa-born coach emphasized the improvement that was needed, particularly in both penalty areas. Barcelona, having exceeded the number of goals conceded in the entire previous LaLiga season in the last match of 2023 (against Almería), has struggled to turn the tide.

This predicament extends beyond domestic competitions, as both the Copa del Rey and the Supercopa de España contribute to this dire situation. The defeat against Real Madrid in the final (4-1), elimination in the quarterfinals against Athletic Club (4-2), and the recent setback against Villarreal (3-5) have cast a shadow over a defensive line that has showcased both the best and the worst since its establishment.

The only game where Barcelona managed to keep a clean sheet was in the Supercopa de España semifinals against Osasuna (2-0). This Wednesday, Barcelona will have the opportunity to redeem their defensive image against the same opponent. Failing to do so might lead to even more historically unfavorable numbers in the negative direction.