Xavi on "three golden points" and criticism of key Barça players

Xavi on "three golden points" and criticism of key Barça players

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The Barcelona coach was happy with the Alaves win but wants more improvements

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez celebrated three points as his side left it late to beat Alaves 1-0 in LaLiga on Sunday.

Frenkie de Jong scored an 87th-minute winner as Barça moved within one point of the Champions League places.

"A win to give us some confidence, I am very happy," Xavi said. "It was crucial to win, we're in a difficult situation and results always give you reason. There are three golden points."

Xavi added that Barça have to "player better, create more and be more self-critical, but this is the path to follow," before defending his players from recent criticism.

"Confidence is low and we need to pick the players up, they've been really criticised," Xavi said. "The environment doesn't help. Jordi Alba played a great game, but also Busquets, Frenkie, who have all been criticised.

"It's not easy to play for Barça, the shirt weighs 20kg more than at other clubs and it's time to be united. The sun came out today, even just one degree, and I am really happy."

Dembele

Xavi said that the situation with Ousmane Dembele is still the same after he didn't turn up on Sunday due to a stomach bug, although he would not have been in the squad either way.

"Honestly, the situation is the same," Xavi explained. "He Didn't turn up because didn't feel well, but he knows the situation. It's not changed."  

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