Barcelona are ‘too reliant’ on Lionel Messi: Edmilson

Lionel Messi was holding the whole squad on his back Edmilson says, with the giants of the La Liga – Barcelona had a tough 2019-20 season.

Unsettling challenges for the Quique Seiten side saw the juggernauts of Spain surrendering to arch-rivals Real Madrid snatching a domestic title from their hands.

In January, the actions to part with Ernesto Valverde and substitute him with Quique Setien was painted a controversial decision. Barcelona’s domestic season ended the 2019-20 campaign trophy-less.

The Catalans are now bidding themselves to challenge for their 6^th Champions League title. They face Serie A side Napoli who are at thte top of the game at Camp Nou as the first leg ended in 1-1 draw. The former Barca midfielder feels Barca current squad isn’t consistent and are too reliant on Lionel Messi.

Edmilson on Barca reliant on Messi told Radio Kiss Kiss:

“On Saturday a Champions League match will be played after a long time. The qualification is open for both teams because playing in a situation like this where there are no fans. I believe Napoli can go to Barcelona and take their chances.

“[Gennaro] Gattuso’s team must continue to play as they have been doing and not be afraid of Barca, because the Blaugrana won’t be scared.

“After the pandemic the league was fraught with difficulty, but they are still Barcelona. They are playing at home and they are always favourites.

“Barca are, however, experiencing a shady moment. A moment where Messi is practically playing alone and loading the whole team on his shoulders.

“They have also changed their coach during the current season.” – he said.

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