Tata Martino has insisted that this week’s off-field issues will not affect Barcelona when they play Real Betis tomorrow.
The Blaugrana host the Verdiblancos tomorrow afternoon looking for the three points that will keep them within touching distance of leaders Atletico Madrid.
But after the news on Wednesday that the club will face a two window transfer ban for breaking FIFA sanctions on signing players under 18, the Coach has claimed that his players will be fully focused on the match.
“It's a lot easier for the players to just think about football, because that's our job. We're informed, but our focus is on the game against Betis, because it's the most important thing,” he told a Press conference.
“The club's authorities have spoken about the problem. I don't want to get caught up in negative thoughts before next season.
“For a side that has 12 games ahead and the possibility of securing three titles, it is important to not alter the course the marked objectives.
“There's no valid excuses, injuries or off the pitch. If we win, we will have had a good season and if we lose, no.
“Nothing else interests us. We accept the problems as part of daily life at Barça. It isn't a different panoramic than what we'd had all year.
“If one starts to think [about conspiracies], it makes it difficult to work. There's lots that's been said.
“What does come to my attention is the exact timing of which these things are happening. However it doesn't serve as an excuse.
“We shouldn't fixate on Betis' situation. You can see the defeat against Málaga harmed them, but they have top players who play with heart.
“They're fighting for survival and we must understand we will play against a hurt side that will try and get back to normal against us.”
The Argentine tactician then commented on the title run-in for the three front-runners and comparisons between Lionel Messi and Neymar.
“We all have our problems. You're the people who put the importance on those who have to catch up. The season is tough, but for everyone.
“Injuries make it difficult and sometimes they have a bigger repercussion depending on who it is. We accept things as they come.
“Only three sides in Europe have things in their own hands to win three competitions, and we're one of them.
“There's been ups and down for all three at the top. Today we all the chance to aspire to win the title.
“I don't want to say anything bad that were it to happen, would be definitive.
“The big difference between them is the time that Leo has spent in Europe. He, also, became a player here. The big coincidence is that they're two extraordinary footballers. They're also footballers who are decisive.
“There are very few like them. They're both at the top level. In 30 days they can do something marvellous. We are lucky that Barcelona has both of them.”
