Manchester city and Real Madrid had something that Barcelona didn't have and that's the financial backing to sign all this top players that are making waves recently and not because Barcelona is no longer a top club. They still have a history and player would want to sign for them instead of other clubs and this came to display last season when they had transfer window war with Chelsea on some top players that both club wanted and they choose Barcelona over Chelsea on all occasions and that's to show that Barcelona still got what it takes but they're lacking the finance backing to actually chase after this players as they can't offer them the same wages as those these other two clubs will offer them and players are going where the money is this days.
Regarding financial issues, Barcelona is running out of money to buy players. They regret letting Messi go, who gave their best and helped them win many titles. And they could not bring Messi or Neymar back to Camp Nou in the last transfer season. Financial constraints force them to calculate carefully before making a decision.
Currently I would put Barcelona ahead of Real Madrid. Because all the players of the Barcelona team play the match with great responsibility. On the other hand, if Real Madrid has a dedicated striker, I think the team will be complete.
Yes, the current Barcelona will be more appreciated than Real Madrid. Barcelona has experienced difficult days and gradually entered the perfect trajectory since Messi's departure. As for Real Madrid, they are also transforming when key striker Benzema joined the Saudi Arabia team. They still need to find the perfect replacement.