Xavi Hernandez dismisses talk of Barcelona “minicrisis” after draw with Girona
The Barça boss underlined his side’s imperious form in La Liga as they close in on the club’s first title since 2018/19.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez struck a defiant tone after Monday’s 0-0 draw with mid-table Girona, insisting that he was pleased with his side’s performance.
They are on track to win the club’s first La Liga title since 2018/19 but struggled to break down a resolute Girona side.
“We are in a very good situation,” Xavi insisted, speaking to DAZN after the game. “We tried and we played a good game, with plenty of chances to win. We were very good in high pressing but we lacked the finishing touch. I think we deserved to win”.
Barcelona had much of the possession against Girona but failed to carve out many clear-cut chances. The side’s incredible league form this campaign has been built on a miserly defensive record, but Xavi’s side have not always sparkled in attack.
“If we only think about today’s game, it’s an instance where we lost two points today. We have to be self-critical and improve in several aspects.”
“The other thing to read is that we are 13 points ahead and I think we would all have signed up for this situation after being knocked out of the Champions League”.
“Minicrisis? I find it incredible”
Despite their huge lead in La Liga, Barcelona have not always convinced this season. Their European campaigns were a disaster, first being eliminated in the Champions League group stage and then losing to Manchester United in the Europa League.
They have struggled against the elite sides in their meetings under Xavi Hernandez and suffered an embarrassing 4-0 defeat to Real Madrid in the Copa del Rey last Wednesday. Barça took a one-goal lead from the first leg but were outplayed by their El Clasico rivals on their home turf.
However Xavi was quick to dismiss any talk of a ‘minicrisis’, insisting that Barcelona’s league form is cause for celebration.
“Minicrisis?” Xavi asked. “I find it incredible to talk about this when you are 13 points ahead of Madrid and 15 ahead of Atlético de Madrid. The word crisis to me does not generate anything positive.”
“I was watching a programme today in which it was said that this has been the weakest league. It makes me angry to hear that because all at the club have worked our socks off in the post-Messi era to be where we are. It’s not easy at all.”