FC Barcelona won Sunday’s game of the 25th round of the Spanish league with Athletic Club 1-0 thanks to Raphinhi’s goal. In the post-match press conference, Xavi spoke about how important the win was, was asked about the behavior of the fans in the stands, and also referred to the situation in the league.
[pytanie o przebieg spotkania]
We took a step forward offensively in 70-75 minutes. Frenkie understood this very well, maybe we missed the free man that was Gavi. On defense, everyone was spectacular and united. Mark is extraordinary. We need more patience, calmness and efficiency. We had a chance to score a second goal. Ansu, Robert, Balde… We also lacked precision and had too many unnecessary losses. I’m proud of how the team competed. It’s a virtue. Something that Barcelona has struggled with throughout history. The courage reflected in Gavi is spectacular. I’m very happy about this. It’s great for the coach and the team.
[Marca Ramón, RAC1] What did you think when Athletic’s goal was canceled?
I didn’t see the hand. I thought it was offside, then I looked at the monitors and it was a handball.
[Alfredo Martínez, Onda Cero] It’s a perfect scenario before the game against Real Madrid, you haven’t lost any players because of cards and you’re putting pressure on them…
We also feel the pressure. We play at home, we want to win the league. We are in a good position, we are 9 points ahead. I told the players today was the final. I wasn’t thinking about the classic. We had to win, get three points, do a good job and I think we did it. We also showed personality in many moments. Athletic often won the ball, they played one-on-one. Robert was also very important. It’s a win with character and it’s crucial for LaLiga’s future.
[Helena Condis, Cadena COPE] What do you think of the cheers from the stands towards Barcelona?
I respect the fans at San Mamés. They always treated me very well. I am surprised by this hostile atmosphere towards Barcelona. It saddens me. I don’t think it’s good for society.
[Raúl Fuentes, Radio Marca] What the team has learned this season is the ability to win while suffering. It seems that now the team can suffer and win in this way.
Yes, I think we suffered too much. We wanted to win higher, but this is San Mamés. It’s a tough stadium and it’s important to win, especially against Athletic who play aggressively and win games. It’s hard to compete here. It’s a gold win for the team.
[Adria Albets, Cadena SER] Do you have the feeling that some people might question Barcelona’s victory because of a referee’s error?
Everyone is free. I respect everyone’s opinions. I may or may not agree with them, but I respect the opinions of others. My opinion is that it saddens me.
Do you think that what happened in San Mamés can be repeated in other stadiums?
We think ahead of time. I have nothing more to say. It makes me sad and that’s it. I have nothing more to add.
[Laura Bruges, TV3] Do you think the “Negreira case” can affect the team?
NO. We don’t talk in the dressing room about what can happen. We want to play football and win. Our job is to defend this team.
