Xavi Hernández left the Diego Armando Maradona stadium not only with the round of 16 under his arm but also with the label of maximum favorite to win the Europa League.
Was it the best game of the season?
We are on the right track, we have improved in the game and in its understanding. Very good at pressing up, recovering balls, knowing how to attack space and take advantage of it. We have done many things well. We have managed to score a goal after almost 40 passes. We have known how to pause and avoid suffering. Amazing what the team is working on. But we haven’t done anything yet, just a great game, but there is hope that we can play great football. We have to be humble, but there are things to think about something big.
Can this victory remove complexes in Europe?
It gives us morale and confidence, but we must continue working with humility. I especially liked it because we dominated the entire match, from start to finish. Something that we had not yet achieved. It is a victory against a Champions rival, who is fighting for the scudetto. A very important victory.
Are you happy because now the criticism has turned to praise for your players?
The veterans are exemplary and the youngsters are very professional. Everyone’s performance is very good. I have seen them suffer and crestfallen, and now they are happy.
Does it look favorite?
It’s an exaggeration to say that no one in the Europa League is at our level. We must work with humility, sacrifice and solidarity. But it is clear that we want to go far and win it.
How do you rate Frenkie?
He is very professional and self-demanding. Very critical of himself. He already understands what we want from him, that he knows how to create superiority, that he divides in the game, that he reaches the area, find the free man. He didn’t understand it and now he understands it.
Do you notice that they already respect Barça?
I already said we were coming back. We lacked reliability in the game and today we were. The rival will look at us more.
What are you most proud of?
That the players begin to understand our style of play. I am very proud of the players. I have seen them enjoy themselves in the field. And the fan sure that he too.