In the first game of the year, FC Barcelona defeated Las Palmas by a score of 2-1, which was a good start for the club. The club was able to maintain its position in the league table by finishing in third place thanks to the three points.

However, it was not a walk in the park for the Catalans, who needed to rely on a late goal from Ilkay Gundogan to secure all three points. The Catalans were able to secure all three points.

Following the conclusion of the match, Barcelona’s head coach Xavi expressed his dissatisfaction with the team’s overall performance. However, he lauded the performance that ensued in the second half.

“In the second half, we performed quite poorly. During the first half, we had easy opportunities to go in behind the defense, but we passed the ball too quickly. According to Xavi, “We were more calm in the second half of the game” (source: Mundo Deportivo).

We made a comeback against a team that has not made a comeback against any other team during this season. I had a great deal of faith. He continued by saying, “At halftime, I told the players that we would win by a score of 1-3.”

Crucial three points for Xavi’s men (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

A few shortcomings in Barcelona’s performance were, however, brought to the attention of the Spaniard. “The way to win the game was to launch an assault on the space that was located behind their defense. Our preparation for that lasted the entire week, yet we did not perform very well. Numerous offsides, horizontal passes, and a lack of precision are all present. It was necessary for us to take a diagonal approach,” he explained.

When it comes to specific events that occurred throughout the game, Xavi did accept responsibility for the goal that was conceded. On the other hand, the coach also claimed that Barca was deserving of the penalty kick that was awarded during the last phase of the game.

Xavi stated that the goal that we made a mistake of conceding was our mistake. “There is tension at all times. On the other hand, if you talk to me about the penalty, I will tell you that it is a clear penalty. There are numerous elements that come into play when playing a football match, such as nerves and pressure.

Additionally, Xavi responded to the criticism, particularly when he was challenged about the lineup alterations that had been made. When it comes to the lineup alterations, you shouldn’t look for uproar. Everyone contributes to the team, and there is no potential for conflict,” he stated.

An additional heated remark was provided by Xavi in response to the question of whether or not Barcelona was behind Real Madrid by a significant margin.

When it comes to me, you consistently make unfavorable conclusions. That is not something you do to other managers. Because we were victorious and it did not take place, it is absurd to discuss it, isn’t it? according to the coach.

After that, Xavi went on to discuss the increasing level of competitiveness in La Liga and how difficult it is to consistently earn three points in each and every match.

There is a lot of parity in La Liga. Beating any team is a challenging endeavor. Look at the games; we won’t even come close to winning by a landslide. “Respect the team that is currently in the lead, we are still alive,” he remarked.

Last but not least, Xavi provided an update regarding the injury sustained by Joao Cancelo, who was forced to leave the field after receiving a knock while playing against Las Palmas.

Xavi is not overly concerned about Cancelo’s injury and is optimistic that he will make a speedy recovery for the team. His statement was that “Cancelo’s injury does not appear to be serious; however, they need to conduct tests on him.”