Xavi Calls for Reset as Barcelona Stumbles Against Shakhtar

Xavi Hernández, the Barcelona coach, expressed his disappointment after the team’s surprising 1-0 defeat to Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League, emphasizing the need for a reset. Despite dominating possession, Barcelona struggled to create opportunities, managing only one shot on target throughout the game. Danylo Sikan’s goal just before halftime secured the win for Shakhtar, preventing Barcelona from securing a spot in the knockout stages.

In his post-game news conference, Xavi admitted that the team deserved to lose and acknowledged the low level of their performances recently. He labeled the match as one of the worst in his two years in charge and stressed the importance of being self-critical. Despite a second-half reaction, Xavi felt it was insufficient for a competition that demands the best.

The defeat comes after Barcelona’s 1-0 win against Real Sociedad in La Liga, a match that Xavi criticized as “unacceptable” with low intensity from his players. Against Shakhtar, he expressed disappointment with the team’s overall performance, citing problems with ball retention, attacking, and handling crosses.

Barcelona remains at the top of Group G with nine points from four games, tied with FC Porto. Xavi highlighted the disappointment of not securing a place in the last 16 but emphasized that qualification is still within their control. The upcoming home game against Porto provides an opportunity to restore confidence and address the current dip in form.

Xavi identified the recent struggles as a mental issue and called for a reaction from the team. Defender João Cancelo echoed this sentiment, acknowledging poor performances in the last two games and emphasizing the need for a better mentality. Barcelona faces Alaves in La Liga, where they aim to bounce back before the international break.

The defeat to Shakhtar has raised concerns about Barcelona’s form and their ability to compete at the highest level. Xavi faces the challenge of regaining confidence and finding solutions to the team’s recent shortcomings as they navigate through a crucial phase in both domestic and European competitions.