My memory is they started that season in terrible form after a much shorter break than most teams and looking a bit down after the champions league final loss. Lots of injuries too. They weren't recovering quickly or playing well so they sacked him and brought in poch. Who didn't change things much. They were a bit better in second half of season but better fitness and availability is as good an explanation as the change of manager.
Then messi joined and any semblance of team balance when out the window and its hard to judge beyond that point.
