Zubizarreta: Great start for Barca

Barcelona director of football Andoni Zubizarreta felt La Blaugrana got the season off to a great start.

The former goalkeeper believes the 5-1 thrashing of Real Sociedad has already left a good impression as Barcelona set about seizing the La Liga title back from Real Madrid.

“The first game gave us goals, the reappearance of David Villa, which is certainly something to rejoice at, and Jordi Alba’s debut.

“In general terms it was a great start to the season because when the curtain goes up on the opening day you don’t know what will happen,” he told Canal Plus.

As regards Lionel Messi’s blistering start with two goals, Zubizarreta feels it is a result of the work put in over the past few weeks.

“The kind of pre-season he has had has done him good and it has also allowed the rest of the players to train better.

“Then there is his competiveness and goalscoring. That is always there.

“Hopefully it will help us not only this summer but next April when we will need it most.”

The 50-year-old was also asked about Cristian Tello’s surprise inclusion in the starting line-up.

“The schedule is demanding and Tello has already appeared last season. He gives us depth,” he explained.

“We are planning to renew his contract and I don’t think there will be any problems.”

In addition, he commented on the comparisons between the team this season and last.

“The idea and profile I think is the same. Tito said at a Press conference that we’ll see how it goes.

“It’s a question of chemistry between the Coach and the players and that is where we have to try and ensure everything is well.

“We have put together our squad and will see if some players can leave here before August 31.”

Tags Zubizarreta
La Liga - Club News