Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has played down Barcelona’s chances of winning the UEFA Champions League this season, arguing that the Spanish giants lack the defensive strength needed to go all the way.

Barcelona cruised to a 6-1 victory over Olympiakos at the Camp Nou on Tuesday night, with goals from Fermin Lopez, Lamine Yamal, and Marcus Rashford lighting up the match.

Despite the emphatic scoreline, Carragher, speaking on CBS Sports, said he remains unconvinced by Hansi Flick’s backline.

“They lost the semi-final last season through naivety, maybe having a lot of young players,” Carragher said.
“When you look at the back four who played tonight — Kounde, Cubarsi, Garcia and Balde — I’m not sure this back four can win the Champions League.”

The former England defender also questioned Barcelona’s tactical setup, saying their high defensive line often leaves them vulnerable against stronger opponents.

“Whenever you watch them, you always feel the opposition has a chance. It’s not just about tactics; I don’t think their defenders are good enough when they face elite teams like Arsenal, PSG or Bayern Munich,” he added.

Barcelona reached the semi-finals last season before being knocked out by Inter Milan, but Carragher believes their defensive fragility could once again be their undoing this term.

Despite their attacking flair, he insists that winning the Champions League requires a more solid and composed backline — something he feels Barcelona currently lack.