FC Barcelona managed to secure a 2-2 draw in a very exciting local Derby against Espanyol. After the match, Xavi and a few of his players spoke with the press.
This is what Hernández had to say:
Regarding the match
“It was a match we should have won. When we were playing better we were able to make it 0-2. It feels as if we have won a point, but analyzing the game, I think we had to win. We dominated well and we have had more chances. We have been in Espanyol’s side of the pitch the whole game. They had two or three opportunities and have been very effective.”
On Barça’s defense
“We conceded too much and the rivals were effective. The first goal is on the buildup and the second one they found spaces on the back of the defense, but in football there are mistakes and we have to try to minimize them.”
Regarding his formation
“I changed the system. I decided to go with 3-4-3 in the final minutes and in the end we got a point. The substitutions really helped the team. We did not play in a remarkable way, but we played well enough to win the game.”
On Araújo’s physical situation and Piqué being sent off
“Araújo seems to have some discomfort. He was hanging in there and we changed him at the half-time. Piqué’s loss will be important, he brings a lot of character, leadership and he gives us a lot. We will compete with what we have. I did not see Piqué’s altercation because I was playing attention to the counterattack.”
Pedri, one of the best players for the Culés also expressed his point of view:
On the final result
“It is true that we were losing and in the end we got a point. It’s a disappointment to leave this pitch with just a point. We came looking for the three and we leave with one.”
Regarding what they lacked
“I think we should have played a lot more calmed. Trying to move them from side to side and make them run after the ball. I think that in many plays we rushed and we have to improve it in the following games.”
On what they to improve
“Being Barça we have to start winning three by three and look up. That is what we have to do.”
The hero of the match, Luuk de Jong, gave a few words as well after the final whistle:
Regarding the match
“We knew it would be very hard but we managed to draw pushing forward. We had a lower level than against Atlético, they made it difficult for us and we tried to create more chances by playing faster.”
On his goal
“I try to be in the area for those kind of crosses that arrive and luckily I was able to score that goal that gives us a very important point.”
Regarding his ambition of playing for Barça
“I wanted to be here and help the team, people know my qualities. I have scored some goals and although I’m coming one from the bench, I am happy to play for Barça and when the coach decides.”
Recent transfer, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, spoke with the press as well:
On his physical form
“I am working hard to be fit. I haven’t played for two months, but I’m giving my best. I am getting a long well with my teammates. they are helping me a lot.”
Regarding the final result
“I think in the end we got a point, after a hard fight. It was important not to lose the match. We had scored another goal but it was offside.”
Young star, Gavi, also gave a few words:
On their performance
“We played very different, today I noticed it with the intensity and also the fans. The offside call on the goal affected us.”
Regarding his positioning
“The manager knows that I can play in various positions. I am a central midfielder, but I’ll give my all anywhere. We are convinced that there is a lot of competition left and our objective is to win the LaLiga.”
