Barcelona manager Xavi has vowed to make a deeper run in Europe next season following their Europa League exit at the hands of Manchester United.
Thursday’s 2-1 defeat saw Barcelona eliminated much sooner than anyone expected and ended a European campaign that saw the Blaugrana fail to make it out of the Champions League group stage in the first half of the season. Stayed.
European results have not reflected Barcelona’s domestic dominance, with Xavi’s side well clear in the La Liga standings and planning their trip to the Champions League next season as well.
“Hopefully next season,” Xavi told the press about how long it will be until Barcelona can once again challenge for European honours.
“Last year we were not able to compete in Europe. This year we competed against Bayern and Inter and we competed against Manchester United. We need to improve. But we did well. And we will come back stronger next season.”
In this latest defeat, Xavi expressed his frustration at his side’s inability to hold on to their lead, leading at half-time before goals from Fred and Antoni turned things around.
“The equalizer hurt us,” admitted Xavi. “The first half was very good. The tie was very even, but maybe it shouldn’t have been. Another big disappointment for us.
“[United] They are physically very strong. For the second round, [Luke] Shaw won the duel and the rebound went to Anthony.
“Their goal made us feel bad. We lacked play in midfield. Those are the games we lose because of details. We need something more in midfield. If Gavi or Padre are there If there were…
“Normally, we can’t brag, but we’ve competed against a distinguished team.”