Barcelona manager Xavi has vowed to make a deeper run in Europe next season after their elimination from the Europa League at the hands of Manchester United.
Thursday’s 2-1 defeat saw Barcelona crash out far earlier than anybody expected and ends a European campaign which saw the Blaugrana fail to make it out of the Champions League group stage in the first half of the season.
The European results have not reflected Barcelona’s domestic dominance, with Xavi’s side well clear at the top of the La Liga standings and already planning their Champions League journey next season as well.
“Hopefully next season,” Xavi told the press when asked how long it will be until Barcelona can challenge for European honours once again.
“Last year we weren’t able to compete in Europe. This year we have competed against Bayern and Inter and we have competed against Manchester United. We need to get better. But we have done well and we will come back even stronger next season.”
On this latest defeat, Xavi voiced his frustration towards his side’s failure to preserve their lead, having been ahead at half-time before goals from Fred and Antony turned things around.
“The equaliser hurt us,” Xavi admitted. “The first half was very good. The tie was very even, but it might not have been. Another very big disappointment for us.
“[United] are physically very strong. For the second goal, [Luke] Shaw wins the duel and the rebound falls to Antony.
“Their goal made us feel very bad. We lacked game in midfield. They are games that we lose due to details. We need a little more in midfield. If Gavi or Pedri had been there…
“In general, we cannot be proud, but we have competed against a distinguished team.”
Credit: 90min.com
