BARCELONA
Following their elimination from the Champions League group stages, FC Barcelona manager Xavi took all the blame possible, moving the spotlight away from his players.
“I have told the players that we have to change out minds. The UCL has been a series of misfortunes, we have had options and personality, but it escaped us. We have to turn the page and think about La Liga,” Xavi said on Friday while talking to media.
After spending more than €150 million in the summer, Barcelona were among the contenders for the UCL, but came up with less than a challenge.
Now, all the focus should be shifted to La Liga, where they stand three points clear off Real Madrid. Still more than in with a shot at the title, Barça will be looking to go head-to-head against Valencia at the Mestalla, tomorrow.
“Valencia will be intense and aggressive. The three points are very important,” Xavi said during his press talk.
“Wit a fourth midfielder, we have more control, we have more possession. Using that tactic in a game depends on the game,” he said.
“In many moments, we need to pause and calm down, and we have talked about that after the Bayern Munich game.”
“I’m still positive. The Champions League is a huge blow, but there are other competitions left, and we can have a great season,” Xavi added.
“We think about the league. We are fighting for the title and that is the energy we must follow. We are good in the locker room and tomorrow will be a great moment to fight back.”
“Now the league, the Copa, the Spanish Super Cup, and the Europa League. We must fight for all trophies. We folded the UCL page.”
