FC Barcelona lost their last El Clasico to Real Madrid, and the club is still feeling the effects of this painful defeat. The Catalans did not necessarily play a bad match; they led the scoreline for the most part of the game, in fact, but still, Real Madrid were able to win the match with two moments of brilliance and luck from their new superstar, Jude Bellingham.
However, there were some mistakes that Barcelona could have avoided to ensure getting the three points in this game. Luck alone cannot be blamed for this loss, and the team will have to improve going forward to ensure they remain in the race for the La Liga title.
Gundogan criticises the team
This was exactly the sentiment shared by Ilkay Gundogan, the scorer of the lone Barcelona goal last night. As SPORT has reported, the former Manchester City player spoke in the mixed zone after the match and made some very honest statements:
“I want to be honest but without going too far. I don’t want to say something I shouldn’t. I come from the dressing room, and obviously, players are disappointed, but after such an important match and an unnecessary result, I would like to see more anger and disappointment.”
One of the problems that Gundogan highlighted in this talk was with the attitude of the players, who, according to the German, did not put up enough of a fight:
“This is part of the problem. Emotions have to come out when you lose. And when you know you can play better and do better in certain situations.”
League can go out of Barcelona’s hands
Gundogan went on to warn that the league title could get out of Barcelona’s hands if things did not improve soon:
“If you don’t react, then this translates onto the field. We have to take a very big step in this aspect because if not, Real Madrid and even Girona could escape from us.”
Gundogan seemed highly disappointed to have lost this match but also took responsibility for ensuring the team does not make these kinds of mistakes in the future:
“I didn’t come here to lose these kinds of matches or allow these kinds of gaps to open up. I also have a responsibility as a veteran player not to let the team allow these things to happen.”
Gundogan did his part in the game by scoring the opening goal early in the first half. However, the team was unable to capitalize on their chances later, and this cost them the game in the end.
Now, a reaction from the team is needed against Real Sociedad, and veterans like Gundogan will have to play a part in getting this reaction from the players.
