Xavi Hernandez heaped praise on Barcelona following their big win over Osasuna, claiming it was one of the best games they have played since he arrived.
Speaking in the aftermath of Barcelona’s 4-0 win over Osasuna last weekend, as quoted by Barca Universal, Xavi Hernandez has words of praise reserved for his players. The Barcelona manager suggested that his team produced a near-perfect performance, hailing them for improving their intensity and enthusiasm.
Barcelona’s performances have gradually improved after some teething problems when Xavi Hernandez replaced Ronald Koeman. The former Spanish international has galvanised the team to such an extent that the Catalan giants are now one of the most eye-catching teams in Europe.
The performances might not always translate into results, and the consistency might be missing for now for Barcelona. But Xavi’s men seem to be moving in the right direction, blowing opponents away regularly, bar one or two blemishes.
The latest exhibition of excellence came in the 4-0 demolition of Osasuna, with Xavi’s team cruising to a straightforward win at Camp Nou. And Xavi was ecstatic following Barcelona’s victory, claiming it was one of the best games he has overseen since replacing Ronald Koeman at the helm.
"This is the way"
— Xavi on #BarçaOsasuna pic.twitter.com/X1woCGxeGS
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) March 13, 2022
“Today, we played one of the best games since I’ve been here. I’m so happy because this was a nearly perfect game. Today we have improved the intensity, the circulation, the desire, the enthusiasm… Non-football aspects that were missing on Thursday, that shows us that nothing is easy.”
Xavi proceeded to admit that the goalless draw against Galatasaray was a reality check, saying, “It [the result against Galatasaray in the UEFA Europa League last week] was a reality. We lowered the intensity against Galatasaray, and I said yesterday at the press conference that if you lower the intensity, in today’s football, they will run you over.”
Xavi’s words ring true, as he always has focused on intensity since being appointed as the Barcelona manager. With his team showing the desired enthusiasm against Osasuna, the Barcelona manager will hope his charges can continue stepping up their efforts, especially when they face Galatasaray in the Europa League later this week and Real Madrid in Sunday’s El Clasico.
