'We could play for three hours and still not score', said Gerard Pique after Barcelona's defeat to Atletico Madrid before the international break.
That might be about to change if Sergio Aguero can finally hit the ground running as he debuts for Ronald Koeman's side.
That, and an impending defensive injury crisis at Real Madrid will go a long way to deciding who comes off worse as the Barca coach and Carlo Ancelotti play out what could be a decisive month.
The Real Madrid coach sits on top of La Liga but he's lost his last two and has a major injury crisis in an already under-staffed defence.
There was misery for Barcelona as they slumped to defeat against Atletico Madrid last time out
Things weren't a great deal better for Real Madrid, who suffered a defeat against Espanyol
Real Madrid remained top of LaLiga despite that defeat but Barcelona sit a lowly ninth
Koeman is down in ninth but he does have Aguero back to save the season. The Argentine came through 30 minutes of football in a friendly on Wednesday, scoring in a 2-2 draw.
He could play a part in Sunday's home game with Valencia with the motivation of a Clasico seven days later.
At 33 years of age and after a delayed start to this season because of a right calf problem, on top of last season's injury and illness-affected campaign, Kun is not going to be the same player that won the Premier League with Manchester City.
But in a team that needs a finisher to make good the chances created by the likes of Frenkie de Jong, Pedri, Gavi and company, his effect on the team could surpass expectations if he can stay fit.
Barcelona managed 54 crosses into the area last month against Granada but had to satisfy themselves with a 1-1 draw.
Aguero's movement and first-time finishing ability can make them far more efficient in front of goal, especially if he gets up to full fitness quickly and is flanked by Memphis Depay and Ansu Fati.
Sergio Aguero came through a friendly match in midweek after injury and could be available
Barcelona coach Ronald Koeman (left) and Real's Carlo Ancelotti (right) will both be wanting to return to winning ways - Barca entertain Valencia this weekend with Real not in action
Real were left absolutely astonished when beaten by Sheriff Tiraspol in the Champions League
Rodrygo rues a missed opportunity during Real's shock home defeat to the Moldovan side
