FC Barcelona did not repeat its successful season in 1998–99, and fell back to second in La Liga, as well as knocked out of the Champions League in the semi-finals.

Barcelona did not perform well in the mid season and lost the league title to Deportivo La Coruña just 5 points behind and Louis van Gaal was let go by the club, with former Real Betis coach Lorenzo Serra Ferrer taking over after 1999–2000 season.

Despite the trophyless season, the side managed to reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League, where it lost to eventual competition runners up Valencia.

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Barcelona-Boca Juniors 2–3 25-08-1999 Joan Gamper Trophy.