This might change quite a bit with the addition of Gundogan who brings in all the experience necessary to compete in the Champions League. He is also a few years younger although Barcelona isn't really adding strength to their squad. Busquets left, Gundogan joined. They are now considering a swap of de Jong for Silva from Manchester City. This would mean de Jong is gone, Silva is added. There is still no significant change that makes the team fundamentally better. They have a good center line from the offense with Lewandowski via Gundogan in the midfield and ter Stegen in the back. But is it quite the same as it was last season despite some names that will have changed when the new season starts.
Of course, they don't have a football player like Messi who changed everything by himself, but I think the midfield of the Barcelona football team consists of really good players. However, there are also rumors that Xavi wants to sign Thiago Alcantara. If Barcelona wants to create an assertive team both in the European cups and in the league next season, they should increase the competition within the team with better quality players. Therefore, it would be a good choice for them to sign Thiago Alcantara after Ilkay Gundogan and Inigo Martinez.
As far as I can tell, Barcelona's midfield is about to go through a major change. Xavi is rumored to have his sights set on Thiago Alcantara, following the recruitment of Gundogan and Martinez. Despite their precarious financial situation, they are obviously not holding back. I have to wonder: is it safe to take this chance?
Don't overlook Gundogan, please. Even if he's been around for a while, time nevertheless moves on. I worry that Barcelona is putting too much stock in him to win the Champions League. It's encouraging to see the team improving, but should we really be looking at the Champions League so seriously already? Not in my opinion.