Former Real Madrid midfielder Toni Kroos has stated that Barcelona’s current tactical approach is not enough to secure the Champions League trophy.
In one of his analyses, Kroos spoke about the Catalan team’s elimination in the quarterfinals, where they were defeated by Atletico Madrid with an aggregate score of 2-3.
“I think Barcelona was the stronger team, but when you play for a long time with one less player, it’s very difficult.”
“Atletico know how to defend the result and, having the advantage of the first leg and the red card of the opponent, they had a big push to advance to the semi-finals,” said Kroos.
He added that Barcelona’s defensive style leaves large spaces in the back, emphasizing that this has also cost them in previous seasons.
“When you defend like that and leave so much space behind, things like that happen, including red cards to stop one-on-one situations with the goalkeeper.”
Kroos concluded his analysis by criticizing the Catalans’ tactical consistency.
“Barcelona’s defense is very fragile. Last year it cost them against Inter, and this year against Atletico Madrid. As I’ve said before, if they don’t change their style of play, they won’t win the Champions League.”
