The Future of Barca Without Messi: Could Suarez Fill His Shoes?

Picture credits: ESPN

As Lionel Messi's contract approaches its expiration and the Lionel Messi era at FC Barcelona comes to an end, the question on everyone's mind is: Will striker Luis Suarez be able to fill Messi's shoes and carry the club forward?

Comparisons to Other Teams

One might argue that there are precedents such as Karim Benzema's performance at Real Madrid following Cristiano Ronaldo's departure. Benzema has thrived and carried the team effectively, which makes his case a compelling argument. However, there are several distinguishing factors.

Karim Benzema worked as a facilitator for Cristiano Ronaldo, giving him the platform to shine and score heavily. Lionel Messi, in contrast, is the creative force for Luis Suarez on the pitch. Although Messi consistently outperforms Suarez in terms of goals scored, it is unlikely that Suarez can maintain a similar level of scoring without Messi's assistant role.

Age and Fitness Concerns

Another critical aspect is Suarez's recent fitness issues. At 33 years old, the sharpness and pace that defined his style are no longer present. Furthermore, recurring injuries have significantly impacted his contributions. Suarez might find it challenging to recapture his peak performance levels.

Perhaps a more relevant comparison could be with Robert Lewandowski, a player of a similar age who has seen his output increase due to focused fitness and a record of being injury-free. If Suarez looked to someone like Lewandowski for inspiration, it might offer a glimpse of hope for a return to form, though the reasons for Suarez's decline remain a point of concern.

The Financial and Tactical Implications

Luis Suarez is undoubtedly a legend at FC Barcelona, but a continued stay at the club seems unlikely for several reasons.

Firstly, his decline is not a secret to European football clubs. Despite his reputation, Suarez remains the second-highest paid player at Barcelona, with a contract extended until the end of next season. Any club would be hesitant to invest heavily in a player facing fitness and goal-scoring issues.

Additionally, Barcelona is currently in a financial crisis exacerbated by the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The club's wage bill is already the highest in world football, and extending the contract of a player like Suarez seems financially unviable.

The senior players, including Gerard Piqué, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and Ivan Rakiti?, are all well beyond their playing primes and command huge salaries. Finding a solution to these financial and player value issues is essential for the club's long-term success.

The Duty of the New Manager

While in this transitional period, new manager Dutchman Ronald Koeman has the challenging task of ensuring the team moves forward. The focus must be on developing young talent and securing the best from players in their prime years.

Players like Frenkie de Jong and Ansu Fati are approaching their peak, and they will need all the support and nurturing Koeman can provide. Moving on from veteran players like Suarez and the others mentioned would be a last resort, given their contributions and status among fans.

A Final Wish for Luis Suarez

Assuming he leaves, a fan's hope would naturally be that Suarez can leave with a record-breaking effort. Completing a season to eclipse Cesc Fàbregas's record and become the club's second-highest scorer would certainly be a positive and fitting farewell for a player of his caliber.

Nevertheless, it is a testament to the club's legacy and the greatness of its players that the legacy lives on even as a new chapter begins at Camp Nou.

Visca la Barca!