Xavi Hernandez (foto: Getty Images)
Xavi criticizes Barcelona’s mentality after Atlético defeat, saying talent is not enough to succeed in the Champions League.
Xavi Hernández admitted the Champions League exit hit hard, as he watched Barcelona fall short against Atlético Madrid.
The former coach and club legend praised the start, but pointed to a familiar problem.
"I watched the game and it hurt. We started brilliantly, scored early, and dominated. But then the same story again. We win 2-1 and still go out. That is not enough for Barcelona," he said.
Barcelona erased the deficit early through Lamine Yamal and Ferran Torres, but lost control as the match progressed.
Xavi highlighted key mistakes.
"You cannot concede a goal like Lookman’s. And you cannot go down to ten men like Eric García. We have seen this too many times," he stressed.
For him, the issue goes beyond tactics.
"We have talent, we have young players, but the mentality on these nights is fragile. Atlético showed fight, organisation and Simeone’s DNA," he explained.
He also supported current coach Hansi Flick, but warned about the demands at this level.
"I like what Flick is building. The football can be great. But here you need consistency. When you control the game, you must manage it," he said.
The regret is clear.
"Coming back from 2-0 is difficult, but we had our chance, and we didn’t take it. The fans deserve better," Xavi added.
Looking ahead, his message is direct.
"Barcelona must reach semi-finals and finals. Talent is not enough. We need a winning mentality. We must learn, win La Liga, and come back stronger," he concluded.
For Barcelona, the European wait continues. For Xavi, the diagnosis is simple; quality exists, but the mindset must match it.