Xavi's frustration boils over as Barcelona narrowly escape Almeria upset

However, coach Xavi Hernandez did not mince his words in criticizing his team's performance.

Barca captain Sergi Roberto emerged as the hero, scoring a crucial brace, including the 83rd-minute winner that sealed the victory. Despite the triumph, Xavi expressed his dissatisfaction in the post-match news conference, labelling the first-half display as "unacceptable".

"We suffered much more than I expected," Xavi lamented. "We had 30 shots and gifted them two goals. The first half is unacceptable. As a coach, you can't accept that."

Xavi's frustration was evident as he called for a more spirited effort from his players, emphasizing the team's need for increased intensity and focus. He acknowledged the fans' displeasure, understanding the whistles that echoed at half-time due to the lacklustre first-half performance.

The match saw Raphinha giving Barca an initial lead, only for Almeria to draw level before the break through Leo Baptistao, further fuelling the fans' frustration. Roberto restored Barca's lead, but defensive lapses allowed Almeria to level once again, exposing vulnerabilities in Barcelona's backline.

Xavi highlighted the team's defensive struggles, noting the 21 goals conceded in the league this season, surpassing last year's entire campaign total. Despite the win, Barcelona's defensive frailties remain a concern.

Roberto's late heroics secured the three points, moving Barcelona within six points of La Liga leaders Girona and four behind Real Madrid, with both teams having games in hand.

Xavi, however, issued a stark reality check, emphasizing that the current squad lacks the quality of Barcelona's iconic 2010 team. He stressed the importance of hard work, unity, and commitment, traits that defined their successful campaign last season.

"We didn't win trophies last year because of individual quality. We won them because we were a group, a family," Xavi asserted. "If we don't give everything, it won't be enough against whoever we are playing. I see a lack of hunger, but that is my responsibility, and it won't happen again."

The team now face a quick turnaround, flying to Dallas for a mid-season friendly against Club America, a decision that Xavi defended, citing the financial imperative to sustain the club.

As Barcelona head into the holiday break before resuming La Liga action in January, Xavi's call for increased hunger and commitment resonates as a crucial message for the team's resurgence in the league.

 

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