Barcelona 2020/21 review: Messi's new heights keep heads above water | OneFootball

And, just like that, 2020/21 is over. Here’s how it went for Barcelona.

Competition breakdown

LaLiga – 3rd

It’s easy to forget that Barça were as low as 13th (in November) after starting terribly under Ronald Koeman. They didn’t deserve to win the title but without some poor results in their late season run-in – things could have been different.

Champions League – Round of 16

After making the quarter-finals last season, Barça couldn’t progress past the round of 16 this time around after being comprehensively beaten by Paris Saint-Germain. Their 4-1 home leg defeat exposed many deficiencies.

Copa del Rey – Winners

They did, however, secure silverware in the Copa del Rey after beating Athletic Club which was thoroughly deserved and ignited a turn of fortunes for the side.

Player of the season: Lionel Messi

There were some encouraging performers in Ronald Araújo, Frenkie de Jong and Pedri but none of them can touch Messi.

Most goals scored, most assists, most key passes, most dribbles completed, most shots per game – he is ridiculously good.

Game of the season: Athletic 0-4 Barcelona

After losing against Athletic in the Supercopa de España, Barcelona put their Basque opponents to the sword in Seville.

This was the Blaugrana at their best, playing exciting, penetrative football and scoring four in a dominant performance.

Top goalscorer: Lionel Messi

It’s that man again. Messi netted 30 goals in 35 LaLiga appearances, 17 ahead of his nearest challenger Antoine Griezmann.

It was the ninth time in his career to reach this 30-goal milestone and scored a further eight goals in non-domestic games.

Rising star: Pedri

Ronald Koeman actually wanted to send Pedri out on loan for this season – how different things could have been.

The 18-year-old enjoyed a stunning breakthrough campaign for Barça and slotted in with ease, showing great technique and vision in midfield.

What comes next?

With Joan Laporta in charge and Koeman unlikely to remain as manager next season, expect significant change in both playing and non-playing staff.