Barcelona defender Dani Alves believes it’s a case of ‘wear and tear’ as for why the club are picking up so many injuries, with Ivan Rakitic the latest.
Rakitic reportedly injured his calf in La Blaugrana’s win over BATE Borisov and is a doubt for the Clasico in 16 days’ time.
“It’s wear and tear after a long time competing at a high level,” the right-back said, Marca reports, when asked about the Rakitic blow.
“It’s happening in football, not only at Barca or Real Madrid. It’s an example that we are human, not machines. So many years competing takes its toll.”
Alves added that the form of Luis Suarez and Neymar isn’t new after the South American pair claimed the goals between them, and appraised Barca’s Champions League standing.
“Neymar and Suarez have had a good connection for a long time, since last year,” he acknowledged.
“It’s seen on the pitch and it’s better for us, that we can enjoy them.
“The win [against BATE] was an important step towards qualification for the next round. The match was comfortable.”
Alves’ interview concluded with a question on the incident at Getafe, when a number of Barca players, himself included, donned fancy dress and were accused of disrespecting the Madrid-based club and leaving the locker rooms in a mess.
“We didn’t dirty the locker rooms like that. Someone has messed it up and said it was us,” Alves protested.
“There are more important things [than the ensuing criticism]. Children are starving. You have to enjoy life.”
