Liverpool icon Jamie Carragher has expressed skepticism about Barcelona’s chances of claiming the UEFA Champions League trophy this season. His comments come after Barcelona’s impressive 6-1 victory over Olympiakos, where notable contributions came from players such as Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, and Marcus Rashford.
Despite the team’s recent success, Carragher pointed to critical weaknesses in Barcelona’s defense, suggesting that it could hinder their quest for European glory. Referencing the previous season, where Barcelona reached the Champions League semi-finals only to fall to Inter Milan, Carragher highlighted what he termed “naivety,” particularly among the younger players in the squad.
Analyzing their defensive lineup from the recent match, which included Jules Kounde, Cubarsi, Eric Garcia, and Alejandro Balde, Carragher expressed doubt about their capability to prevail against top-tier European teams. He stated, “Whenever you watch them, you always feel the opposition has a chance. It is not just how they set up tactically.” His concerns are particularly pronounced when contemplating encounters with elite clubs such as Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich, which he believes could exploit these defensive frailties.
While Barcelona’s attacking prowess remains formidable, Carragher’s insights serve as a cautionary reminder of the importance of a robust defense in the Champions League, suggesting that improvement at the back will be crucial if the team is to overcome the challenges posed by the continent’s best.