After yet another humbling defeat in the Champions League for Barcelona, coach Ronald Koeman does not seem too optimistic about his side’s progression into the next round of the competition. The Dutchman was disappointed in the team’s performance, which seemed to lack a cutting edge all across the pitch.
There are plenty of questions about Koeman’s team selection however, and he certainly shares the blame for this defeat. Even so, the Blaugrana were extremely lethargic and did not show anywhere near their best football. In the post-match press conference, the manager summed up their miserable outing and evaluated their chances of progression to the next round.
On the result and performance: “The result reflects the game. In the second half, they have been superior. They have been very effective. The first half was more even, but in the second half we had problems and they have proven to be superior to us both with the ball and in the physical aspect of the game.”
On the team’s chances and defending: “With 1-0 we had a very clear chance with Dembélé, but then we started to have problems and they were superior. We didn’t defend well in the equaliser, it’s hard to get ahead of the game and then face a quick equaliser, but it’s a matter of football.”
On the difference between the two teams: “We have to improve things and we knew that this could happen to us. They are ahead of us. Today has shown that we lack things to be at the best level, especially in the Champions League.”
On Gerard Pique: “Piqué has shown that he was fine because he was able to play without discomfort, but with a result like this it was not necessary to risk 90 minutes.”
On the possibility of a comeback: “Having lost 1-4 at home, there are very few options to come back, you have to be realistic.”
On whether this is a setback: “I don’t think it’s a blow. We are on a path to change things.”
