Xavi ‘proud’ of his team as they ‘competed’

FC Barcelona were not able to book their place in the Copa del Rey semi-finals after falling to defeat in extra time in San Mamés against Athletic Club. After the game in his press conference, Barça coach Xavi Hernández appeared disappointed but at the same time proud of his players, especially the younger members of the team. “The feeling I have is one of disappointment because a trophy has gone, and in that way too, losing in extra time. On the other hand I feel proud of the young players as they were fantastic,” said the blaugrana boss. 

“The venue was very difficult as Athletic are an intense and aggressive team, the most physical in the league,” admitted Xavi before adding: “We have our all. We have to be proud because we competed. We have to take away the fact that we battled with young players but it just did not come off. Barça has a future as this is the start of a great generation.” 

To round off, Xavi looked to the future: “We have to rest, recover after today’s big effort. The team will pick themselves up by winning game. Now we focus on the league and then the Champions League will come.”