13. Barcelona: 2008/09
Guardiola’s first great Barcelona team almost bridged two eras. There were holdovers from Rijkaard’s preference for experienced stars, such as strikers Eto’o, Thierry Henry and Eidur Gudjohnsen. There were also a few veterans at the back, where Giovanni van Bronckhorst and Sylvinho still rotated on the left of defense.
They were blended with Guardiola youth products such as Sergio Busquets. He completed a majestic midfield trio also featuring Xavi and Iniesta, with the latter taking on a bigger role than in 2006. Further forward, Messi became the focal point and proved the catalyst for Guardiola winning the treble in his first season in charge.
It was completed with a comfortable 2-0 win over United’s Rooney and Ronaldo-led holders. Eto’o and Messi got the goals to ensure Barca’s third European crown.
This group would rank higher were it not for the fortunate nature of their semi-final win over Chelsea. The Blues were denied multiple penalty shouts, despite strong claims.
It’s also true key areas of this team were on the decline. Eto’o was never comfortable under Guardiola’s thumb and was sold to Inter in the summer, while Henry left for New York a year later after another frustrating season playing on the wing. Barca were better in vital positions two years later.