At least, Xavi managed to return good results for Barcelona this season, because this season will be Xavi last season at Barcelona. Indeed, previously when Girona was still firmly in second place, I also thought that Girona was capable of maintaining second position. But yes, in reality Girona has returned to the quality of their mediocre team so yes, this has caused Girona to get bad results recently even though they only play against teams that are in the bottom zone or in the relegation zone. But regarding Barcelona, even though Barcelona failed to defend the title but yes, if Barcelona can still manage to finish in second place, of course it will still be a good result for Barcelona compared to Atletico, which is really difficult to stabilize and even Atletico is in danger of failing to finish in the top four this season.
For me, since Ter Stegen returned as the main goalkeeper, Barcelona's goal has not been as easy to break down as when Inaki Pena replaced Ter Stegen due to his injury. Barcelona's main goalkeeper can be relied on, unlike when Barcelona's goal was guarded by Inaki Pena. understandably, this young goalkeeper lacks experience and often makes blunders. that's why, Barcelona experienced some very messy matches. plus, several of Barcelona's core defenders also played badly. Now Barcelona is starting to perform a little better again, even though Gavi, De Jong, Pedri are again injured. Likewise with Balde, Joao Cancelo who is often relied on in Barcelona's defense line.
however, Xavi was able to bring Barcelona through to the quarter-finals of the Champions League. plus, currently Barcelona is runner up behind Real Madrid. with 9 matches remaining until the end of the competition, Barcelona is 8 points adrift of Real Madrid. well, it's quite difficult to catch up on the points difference from the top of the standings. moreover, if Madrid is still able to maintain its consistency throughout the remaining matches this season. but at least, Xavi has improved Barcelona's performance and has a chance to advance to the next phase of the Champions League.
As for Girona, their ranking could drop again in the remaining 9 matches. The problem is, Girona has matches against Atletico and Barcelona. plus, several other matches. If Girona loses, that means giving Bilbao and Atletico the opportunity to finish in the top four of La Liga until the competition ends.