The ten pillars on which Barcelona's historical unbeaten record are based LaLiga - Barcelona No defeat in 38 LaLiga games

Real Sociedad's record of 38 league matches without defeat has stood for almost four decades, but Barcelona matched it on Saturday and it's clear Los Cules' own historic unbeaten run has been based around 10 key factors.

The domestic title will likely follow such a record, although the Blaugrana are intent on finishing the season unbeaten in LaLiga to make another piece of history.

Ernesto Valverde's arrival has brought increased defensive solidity to the team.

His switch to a 4-4-2 has improved the protection the defence receives, albeit putting more of the pressure going forward on Lionel Messi.

This lengthy unbeaten run did actually begin during Luis Enrique's time in charge, and the team has since gone from strength to strength.

Ten key factors can be attributed to this incredible streak and MARCA have reviewed them all:

1. Ter Stegen

The German stopper has been at a high level since the 2016/17 season.

He's only conceded 25 goals in the last 38 league matches and has made some quite incredible saves in that time.

Without him, it would have been impossible to put together such a streak.

2. The defensive partnership

Gerard Pique looked to be on the decline last season, however, he's been rejuvenated by playing next to Samuel Umtiti on a regular basis.

Umtiti's strengths compliment what the veteran is good at, and even when the Frenchman has been injured, Thomas Vermaelen has contributed exceptionally.

3. Jordi Alba

Alba has enjoyed his best season at the Camp Nou.

He's vastly improved the attacking side of his game and has contributed eight league assists this season, standing as the third highest assist contributor in the entire division.

In a formation which limits genuine wing-play, the Spaniard has been able to provide width and form a fruitful partnership with Lionel Messi.

4. The double pivot

Up until Valverde's arrival, few would ever have anticipated that Los Cules would abandon their three-man midfield as long as Sergio Busquets was still present at the club.

Nevertheless, the Spanish midfielder and Ivan Rakitic have found a perfect understanding and have been able to work together in a midfield two.

5. Messi

The Argentine has been at the top of the world game for almost a decade now.

He seems to just keep improving and without him, Barcelona wouldn't be in the position they find themselves in at this time.

Messi has netted 39 goals in 38 matches and always gives the Blaugrana an opportunity to win a match.

6. Playing in a compact fashion

A priority for the former Athletic Club coach was to move the defence and attack closer together.

Barcelona were too open last term and the Spaniard has rectified that, albeit at the expense of some attacking vibrancy.

They give up less chances playing in this shape and that has helped them remain unbeaten.

7. Valverde's substitutions

The Luis Enrique era was characterised by the former Roma coach not using all his substitutions during a match.

Valverde is the polar opposite.

He makes all his changes on a regular basis and often they have an impact on the outcome of a match.

The coach is decisive from the bench.

8. Iniesta

Andres Iniesta lost all rhythm and confidence in the 2016/17 season, he was rarely a starter by the end of the campaign and many wondered whether he would bid a fond farewell to the Camp Nou in the summer.

He's been reinstated this term and has been a stable performer in midfield, showing he still has the ability to decide matches, even at 33 years old.

9. Options from the bench

Having spent around 310 million euros over the course of the campaign, the Catalan giants have been able to vastly improve the quality of their bench.

Whilst this has been funded by Neymar's acrimonious departure, the coach has been given far more options as a result.

10. Switching from MSN

Neymar's exit brought a feeling of despair to the Camp Nou at the beginning of the season.

Nobody could envisage the team actually improving, and they've done so by removing the overreliance on MSN.

Barcelona have become all the more difficult to beat, as results have proven.