The latest round of post-match quotes on the part of Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández have given rise to a pair of altogether noteworthy takeaways.
This, of course, comes fresh off something of an underwhelming evening’s work for Barca on Sunday.
The Blaugrana marked their return to action last night, making the trip to the Basque Country for a La Liga showdown with Athletic Club.
Xavi and co. headed into proceedings in the knowledge that an eventual victory would have seen them leapfrog Girona into 2nd in the Spanish top-flight table.
In turn, it came as a disappointment when, upon the full-time whistle sounding, Barcelona were forced to make do with a share of the spoils, in a goalless stalemate.
Speaking to the media in his post-match press conference, the aforementioned Xavi was therefore drawn on what marked something of a toothless display on the part of his side.
And the Spanish tactician was not shy in revealing his take that Barcelona managed to do just ‘one thing’ well at San Mamés:
“We defended well, that’s the only thing we did well today.”
From here, the subject of his side’s dwindling La Liga title hopes was also put to Xavi.
After Real Madrid and Girona above them both dropped points over the weekend, Barca failed to take advantage, remaining eight points adrift of their table-topping Clásico rivals as a result.
The Blaugrana’s boss, however, is refusing to throw in the towel just yet, having assured:
“We’re still in the league race. There are 11 matches left, of course we have to continue.”
Conor Laird | GSFN
