Barcelona are going through a period of transition, despite winning LaLiga last term.

That is the view of former Barca striker Gary Lineker, who netted 51 goals in 138 appearances for the Blaugrana between 1986 and 1989.

The Catalan giants ended their victorious domestic campaign 10 points clear of fierce foes Real Madrid.

But in cup competition, they were beaten by Real in both the Copa del Rey and Supercopa de Espana.

While in Europe, Barca suffered a group stage exit in the Champions League and a Europa League knockout round play-off defeat to Manchester United.

Having failed to seal the return of Lionel Messi, Camp Nou legends Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have also ended their association with the club.

Speaking at the launch of LEGENDS, Lineker said: "It's very much a time of transition for Barcelona.

"The old guard have all gone now — Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta, [Lionel] Messi, and now we're seeing [Sergio] Busquets and Jordi Alba going as well. 

"It's now time for the young players. It's a good chance for them. 

"They've got so much talent there like Pedri, Gavi, and [Alejandro] Balde, who I also like a lot. 

"Also, Ansu Fati, who can hopefully fully recover and be back to his best. 

"It's a time of change, but they've got a good man in charge in Xavi, and they've won the league despite that. Hopefully they will continue to be successful.

"You can look at both Barcelona and Real Madrid now with all the young talent coming through with a lot of optimism."

While four-time Champions League winner and ex-Barca playmaker Andres Iniesta added: "The team will naturally go through a transition.

"It's a fact of life, as they say, with players who've been there for years and other younger players who've come on strong. 

"They'll look for players who fit in with what both the club and coach are looking for. 

"That's how they'll continue to grow."

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