Xavi says team misses Gavi, criticises finishing after Valencia 1-1 Barcelona: “One of the worst in Europe” | OneFootball

Barcelona continue their hunt for a win as they came up short against Valencia after a 1-1 draw at the Mestalla. They are now three games without a win, and the pressure on Xavi is more than it’s ever been before.

“We deserved to win, we did everything. What happened over the past weeks with regard to effectiveness was repeated,” he said speaking about the game.

Barcelona created some incredible chances, but none were converted, which has been a regular theme for them through the season. And Xavi could not agree more.

“This match pretty much sumarises the season for us.”

“We train finishing but it depends on the players’ confidence,” he said with frustration about the team’s inability to convert chances.

“We have to be one of the teams with the worst finishing in Europe. I am very frustrated today.”

He was interrogated by Alejandro Balde, whose form has been concerning for the club, due to which he has also spent time on the bench recently.

“Balde is an important player for us. I said that before. Today he played well, and create chances.”

Xavi also talked about the atmosphere in the dressing room, confirming the anger and annoyance the players feel during this poor patch of form.

“The dressing room is upset and they are as disappointed as I am because we played a good game, and that was enough to win.”

The goal Barcelona conceded today had the team’s pressing in the defensive third been coherent enough. A player who could have prevented a situation such as that is Gavi, whose injury coincides with the team’s form.

“We miss Gavi at all times.”

“We cannot allow Guillamon to shoot like that from just outside the box. Opponent defenses are very aggressive and we have to be the same. We have to improve a lot in defence.” he added.

Source: MARCA