Barcelona have retained parts of their title-winning team, but are markedly short in some key positions

Have Barcelona actually improved this summer? They were immense in La Liga last season, tallying 88 points, buoyed by one of Europe's best defences. They were world-class in at least six positions, and their big summer signing, Robert Lewandowski, was as prolific as advertised.

But are they any better this time around? Or have Barca actually regressed? That team relied on the contributions of both Sergio Busquets and Ousmane Dembele, who have both left. And although Jordi Alba had lost his place in the XI by the end of the season, the weight of his departure will undoubtedly be felt too.

And none of the three have really been replaced. Barca's financial struggles have caught up to them this summer, leaving their transfer business very limited. They couldn't secure Lionel Messi, and won't be able to sign Neymar, either. Indeed, it's difficult to say that any of the new acquisitions are up to the level of those who left. Busquets' absence, in particular, leaves a concerning hole in defensive midfield.

Still, eight starters from last year's title-winning side remain, which could count for something. Factor in that this is still a pretty young team, and there's reason for confidence in Catalonia. However, Real Madrid seem to have improved — despite Thibaut Courtois' knee injury — and will push Barca further this season. It's all set up to be an enthralling title race in La Liga, one where Barca will surely be pushed to the limit…

GettyRealistic expectations

Barca might have difficulty replicating their success from last year. Xavi's side had a strange habit of winning games without playing particularly well, relying on a stout backline and the timely goals of Lewandowski to carry them to victories. It worked for a year, but the level of performance suggests it might not be sustainable.

Still, they will fancy their chances in La Liga, and a repeat isn't out of the question. Real Madrid will undoubtedly be stronger than last year, and it will likely be a dead heat for most of the season. Win the Clasicos, don't drop points to the relegation-threatened sides and Barca could do it.

Elsewhere, it's up in the air. Barca have been miserable in Europe under Xavi, and had little success against top-tier European opposition in pre-season. Still, Barca will probably get out of their Champions League group. A quarter-final appearance, and eventual loss, is probably realistic — not that fans will like it.

AdvertisementGetty ImagesBest-case scenario

This team goes as far as the young players can take them. If Pedri stays fit, Gavi develops, and Ansu Fati sticks around, the Blaugrana could be dangerous. Add in some consistency from Raphinha and the usual glut of goals from Lewandowski, and Barca might develop into a real attacking force.

Couple that with the usual defensive excellence, and the sky is the limit. A La Liga title certainly seems within reach, and a Champions League run is possible — especially if Barca bring in an extra player or two. A Copa del Rey win, especially if they get a kind draw, isn't out of the question either.

At best, Barca do a domestic double, and probably make it to the Champions League semis before being knocked out by a more experienced European outfit. That certainly wouldn't be a bad season at all. It would also give hope that this project will only continue to grow.

Getty ImagesWorst-case scenario

If Barca get found out defensively, this could get very messy. Xavi's side are certainly good enough as a unit to finish second in La Liga, but if the injuries hit, they could slip to third — especially with Atletico Madrid looking dangerous.

There's also a chance that new additions Ilkay Gundogan and Oriol Romeu don't gel, and Barca are left missing Busquets and pining for Messi. That could well breed some serious discontent around the club, and put Xavi on the hot seat.

Regardless, this is a team that will now be judged by its European performances. At worst, Barcelona don't make it through their group, drop into the Europa League, run into a dangerous opponent — perhaps Liverpool — and get knocked out.

After winning La Liga, a trophyless season would be an absolute disaster in Catalonia.

GettyThe MVP

Last season, you probably would have said this is Lewandowski's team. After all, the Pole was their marquee signing, a top player with an immaculate goalscoring pedigree.

But over the course of the campaign,Ronald Araujo made it clear that he is the key to Barca's success. The Uruguayan centre-back was immense as the Blaugrana cruised to the league title, anchoring Europe's best defence. He achieved the kind of consistency that very few defenders have in recent years, while also developing as a passer. Already among the world's best, he could get even better.

A nod should also go to Pedri. The Spanish starlet is immensely gifted and certainly improved last year before struggling with injuries. His fitness problems are surely a concern, but a full season on the pitch could see him become a generational talent.