Xavi upbeat despite Champions League loss

Barcelona midfielder Xavi does not believe the defeat to Bayern Munich over the two legs in the semifinal of Champions League marks the end of an era at the club.

After defeating the Catalan giants 4-0 at the Allianz Arena, Bayern Munich further rubbed salt on their wounds by defeating Barcelona 3-0 at the Camp Nou yesterday night. Many have marked it as an end of an era for the club that won 14 trophies in 4 years under Pep Guardiola. However they are on course to win the Liga BBVA and Xavi believes the future is bright. Speaking to Canal+, he said:

“I still see a bright future at Barca. There’s no need to be drastic. The team has a future, we’ve competed very well up until now. I’m always optimistic and this team has the desire.

“We’ve not been able to get through the semi-finals of the Copa del Rey and Champions League (but) I think we have the team to carry on. On Sunday we have another competition.”

Admitting that the newly crowned German champions were a better side, Xavi added:

“Of course I am feeling down because the team gave everything, especially in the first half. We have to congratulate Bayern, they are in extraordinary form. They were better than us and are worthy finalists.

“We noticed the players missing in defence. It is not an excuse but we are talking about absences that weaken the team. That said, Bayern were superior. They dominate all aspects of the game right now.”