Luis Enrique insists Barcelona “deserved” to beat Athletic Bilbao and Villarreal and only need “another dynamic” to start winning again.
Lionel Messi’s late free kick rescued a 1-1 draw for Barca at Villarreal, just days after the Catalans lost 2-1 to Athletic in the Copa del Rey, but Enrique made it clear performances were not the reason for his side’s lack of results.
“We needed the three points and I think we deserved the win, both for the number of chances and balance of play,” the Coach said after the game at La Ceramica, formerly El Madrigal.
“We had a lot of play in their box, not always very clear, but we created enough to take all three points.
“We deserved the three points and I can’t criticise my players, they rose after Sansone’s goal.
“I’d like to say that Barca played poorly, but I’m sorry, I didn’t see it that way, neither in Bilbao nor in Villarreal.
“We’ve improved and I’m happy with the team, despite the results, although it’s clear that we need wins and another dynamic.
“We weren’t precise enough in the last few yards. Villarreal play very well with and without the ball.
“Pato? He got in between the lines two or three times, but without causing damage.
“We knew Villarreal would be difficult, but I think we deserved the victory.
“The first half of the season isn’t over, so we’ll see if there’s still time. We’ll still be able to fight for this title.
“It’s true that it doesn’t depend on us but on Madrid, who are leaders for a reason.
“We must be even stronger to find this [title] dynamic and I have no doubts that we’re going to get it. We’ll continue fighting for the League.
“We have to continue playing as we are but obviously with different results.
“Referees? I don’t have anything to say about the officiating. When you have these types of situations, you have to be much better than your opponents so [controversial decisions] don’t prove decisive. I don’t judge referees.”
