Barcelona Manager Xavi Hernandez talked about their game against Manchester United and reflected positives despite failing to win on the home turf in a crucial Europa League round of 32.
Nou Camp hosted the meeting between the two giant clubs in Europe and the game settled with all square after the final whistle was blown.
Barca v Man Utd did 𝗡𝗢𝗧 disappoint 🍿🍿🍿 pic.twitter.com/GVZWz73CMa
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Marcus Rashford scored once again for the Red Devils which is his fourth in a row as Barcelona’s summer arrival, Jules Kounde scored an embarrassing own goal on their 2-2 draw.
Marcus Alonso scored the opener for Barcelona right after the second half kicked on but two quick-fire Manchester United goals shifted the momentum and Barcelona rescued a draw via Raphinha’s wonderful goal.
The Red Army taking over Catalunya 🔴🔥 pic.twitter.com/Tm8N8Oi3fj
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After the game, manager Xavi Hernandez spoke about the game while he expressed his pride in the way the team performed. Here are a few snippets of what the Spaniard said during his post-match press attendance.
On his judgment of the result: “I think we saw a balanced match. Both teams had chances.”
On the second leg: “We had chances at the end. We leave with the sensation that we should have scored a winning goal. Everything will be decided at Old Trafford.”
On Pedri’s injury: “Pedri has quadriceps discomfort.”
Casemiro and Bruno Fernandes checking in on Pedri when he went down with an injury.
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On Raphinha’s reaction to being substituted: “Raphinha has apologized for his reaction after the substitution. I understand him. I think it’s fine that he’s frustrated, but I take the best decisions for the team.”
On the unawarded penalty: “I told the referee that the penalty was very clear, as it was a handball out of natural position. He said it was not a handball, as it was close to his body. For me, it was a clear penalty.”
On the result: “I’m quite satisfied, we don’t like to draw but we have competed against an opponent who has a spectacular level, which is one of the best teams now in Europe. We have equalized intensity, dominated at times and I stay with the character of the final stretch.”
On the game next week: “At Old Trafford, it will be a game with a lot of intensity. We can win, we can go there and compete. I’m leaving proud of the team, despite the draw.”
On Fred’s handball: “The second is a penalty like a cathedral. It’s very clear. It seems incredible to me that they haven’t pointed it out.”
On the need for rotations: “Rotations are needed because the calendar is very heavy. Pedri’s injury is a pity.”
On Sergi Roberto: “Sergi Roberto is a very dynamic player, he can give us a lot in midfield positions.”
On Pedri and Gavi being unavailable for the second leg: “We have options without Pedri and Gavi. Frenkie, Sergi, Pablo.”
On Sergio Busquets’ and Pedri’s status: “We’ll recover Busquets for Sunday. Tomorrow we’ll see what Pedri has, one last test is needed.”
