'Suffering makes us strong' - Barcelona joy despite Mbappe record

After a heartbreaking defeat by Inter Milan in the Champions League semi-finals, there was a very real possibility of Barcelona's season falling apart.

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In recent seasons, perhaps it would. Downgrading a potential treble to a solitary cup triumph would have been on brand not so long ago, given the club's struggles on and off the pitch in recent years.

But this is a new Barcelona.

After falling 2-0 behind in Sunday's Clasico against arch-rivals Real Madrid - the third time in four matches they have done that Barcelona roared back to lead 4-2 at half-time, 4-3 by the end.

After surviving some late Madrid pressure, Barcelona know victory against Espanyol on Thursday will secure a 28th league crown. Defeat for Madrid against Mallorca on Wednesday would do the job for them.

Four Clasico victories in the same season only the second time that has ever happened highlights the marvelous job Hansi Flick has done since replacing Xavi as manager last summer.

A team who not too long ago lacked identity and belief now have both in abundance, even if they don't do things the easy way.

With young players including Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Pau Cubarsi enjoying stellar campaigns, the Blaugrana look well equipped to fight on all fronts for years to come.

After a quite opening period on Sunday, Flick's attack picked Madrid apart with their relentless pressing and ruthless finishing.