Barcelona 2005/6 – Home

The 2005-2006 season for FC Barcelona was significant, marked by both domestic success and progress in European competition. Under the management of Frank Rijkaard, Barcelona showcased a brand of football that laid the foundation for the era of dominance that would follow in the subsequent years.

La Liga Title: Barcelona clinched the La Liga title during the 2005-2006 season, finishing the league campaign with an impressive 82 points. The team's attacking style, built on quick and intricate passing, was spearheaded by key players like Ronaldinho, Samuel Eto'o, and a young Lionel Messi. This title marked the club's first La Liga triumph in six years and signaled a resurgence for Barcelona.

Champions League Campaign: In the UEFA Champions League, Barcelona reached the final, held at the Stade de France in Paris. They faced Arsenal in a highly anticipated match. Despite going down to ten men early in the game due to a red card for goalkeeper Jens Lehmann, Arsenal took the lead through Sol Campbell. However, Barcelona staged a comeback with goals from Samuel Eto'o and Belletti, winning the final 2-1 and securing their second European Cup/Champions League title.

Key Players: The team's success in the 2005-2006 season was fueled by a stellar cast of players. Ronaldinho was at the peak of his powers, dazzling with his creativity and flair. Samuel Eto'o provided lethal finishing up front, while young Messi began to make a significant impact. Deco, Xavi, and Carles Puyol were also instrumental in the team's performances.

Style of Play: This season marked the establishment of Barcelona's trademark playing style under Rijkaard – a possession-based, attacking football that emphasized quick passing and individual brilliance. The team's ability to control matches with a fluid attacking style laid the groundwork for the success that would continue in the years to come.

In summary, the 2005-2006 season was a pivotal one for Barcelona, witnessing the resurgence of the club as a dominant force in both domestic and European football. The La Liga title and the Champions League triumph signaled the beginning of a remarkable era for Barcelona, setting the stage for further successes in the subsequent seasons.