After their 2-1 victory against Osasuna on Sunday in La Liga, Xavi Hernandez thought his Barcelona squad were missing in various areas.
The visitors took the lead on a Jules Kounde header, but Chimy Avila equalized with a fantastic curling shot. But a goal by Robert Lewandowski ensured victory and three points for the team.
What Xavi thought of it all was as follows:
“We lacked initiative, patience, and offensive production. We had to get our hands dirty; it wasn’t easy, but we earned it. El Sadar is notoriously challenging. I am happy with how the group is carrying themselves. He said, “They are a really intense and straightforward crew.
We needed Lamine and Balde’s one-on-one prowess, but they defended effectively on the inside. When we possessed the ball, we weren’t particularly creative going forward, but it’s a challenging environment for any team to succeed in.
Xavi was particularly effusive in his admiration of two new players, Joao Cancelo and Joao Felix, both of whom made their debuts off the bench against Osasuna.
“I liked the attitude of both of them,” he said.
How they contributed, including the several subs that were used. I think their mindset is the most important thing they bring to the club, but they can contribute much.
The La Liga team Barcelona will now sit out the international break. When they go back, the Catalans will host Betis before facing Antwerp in the Champions League.