Xavi had spoken about Barcelona’s need to take a step forward in Europe this season and Tuesday’s 5-0 win over Antwerp felt very much like exactly that - a step in the right direction.
Some will say ‘yes but it’s only Antwerp’ - but it was the manner in which Barca dispatched the Belgian champions that really resonated and brought back memories of happier days in Europe.
There’s no doubt the squad has far more quality this season with the arrival of the two Joaos, Ilkay Gundogan and the emergence of Lamine Yamal.