Barcelona struggled to secure a 3-2 win over Almeria in La Liga following a lackluster first half that ended with a 1-1 tie. Expressing dissatisfaction with his team’s performance, Xavi voiced concerns about their lack of drive, prompting a stern halftime talk from the coach.
In discussions with the press, Xavi highlighted the seriousness of a team with minimal victories lacking a cohesive spirit. He took responsibility, citing the halftime team talk as the toughest of his coaching career.
“It is very serious that a team that has only won one league does not have a soul, but it will not happen again. It’s my responsibility. During the break I had the toughest talk of my career as a coach.”
“Did it work? You’ve already seen it. I liked the second half, unlike the first, and that’s why we won. I think the victory is fair.” remarked Xavi.
The coach’s firm words at halftime seemed to yield positive results as Barcelona notably improved in the second half, securing a 3-2 win, largely due to Sergi Roberto’s pivotal goals.
“The game went perfectly for us because the first half is what we should not do and the second, what we should do,” Xavi stated. “If we play like the second half we will always be able to compete for the titles.”
Xavi expressed concern over Barcelona’s leaky defence, having conceded 21 goals in 18 matches, a stark contrast to the previous season’s total of 20 goals conceded by the reigning champions.
Looking ahead, Xavi hopes for a rejuvenated squad after the Christmas break to capitalize on the Almeria victory. Their next La Liga fixture, away against Las Palmas on January 5, will be a pivotal moment for the team.
FC Barcelona performance and stats
It will be FC Barcelona ended the league in the 3rd position with 38 points.
In the last 18 games, it has won 11 times, drawn 5 times, and lost twice. In its last match, FC Barcelona won 3-2 against Almería.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 34 goals and conceding 21.
