FC Barcelona faced Real Betis last night in a match that was expected to be a difficult one for the Catalans, as the Verdiblancos are one of the most competitive teams in La Liga. However, the match turned out to be a cakewalk for Barcelona, as the Catalans thumped Real Betis 5-0.
The five goals scored by Barcelona were all scored by different players, as the whole of the team turned up to entertain the spectators at Montjuic Stadium after the international break.
Praise for Gavi
Xavi was full of praise for several of his players as the team got three important points in the bag. Joao Felix and Joao Cancelo, who both made their starting debuts for Barcelona, received special praise, but, as Mundo Deportivo has reported, other players like Gavi, Lewandowski, and Ferran Torres were also commended by the Barcelona head coach.
With the signing of Ilkay Gundogan, the already important role of Pedri, and the lack of involvement during the pre-season led to whispers that Gavi would not be getting as important a role in the squad as he had last season. However, he was brilliant in the game against Betis, and Xavi had some special praise for the youngster:
“Gavi is the heart of the team, a fundamental player. Many said he would play less this year, but he is an exemplary footballer.”
Lewandowski and Torres
Robert Lewandowski scored another goal to take his tally to three for Barcelona this season. The Pole faced criticism at the start of the season for his lack of goals, but Xavi said he was now enjoying himself:
“Robert has had two very good games, against Osasuna and against Betis. He is enjoying it; he doesn’t have to come out of position as much anymore, and you can see that he’s happy.”
Lastly, Xavi also applauded Ferran Torres for his transformation since the last season:
“It was he who wanted to stay, and it’s very commendable to turn things around as he did with impressive mental strength.”
All of these players deserved the praise that they got from Xavi. Gavi always gives his all in each game, and Ferran Torres has also shown great mental fortitude to turn his form at Barcelona.
Lewandowski has also recovered his scoring form, and hopefully, this will continue in the coming months to help Barcelona perform their best in the season ahead.
