Barcelona defender Javier Mascherano has explained why his side are yet to hit their peak performance level.
The 28-year-old admits the Blaugrana have not been at their best in the opening five games of the campaign, but has asked for patience ahead of the matches against Sevilla and Real Madrid.
“It is early on in the season,” Mascherano told Sport. “It is always the most difficult stage. We have a game, then we stop for two weeks for internationals, then we have another game. That's what makes it so difficult.”
The former Liverpool man also commented on the recent spate of injuries the club have received in defence, with both Carles Puyol and Gerard Pique sidelined, and his unlikely central defensive partnership with Alex Song.
“There were problems at centre back even before I arrived. But this year, with the arrival of Alex Song, hopefully that will stop.
“There may be times when he does not look like a natural defender, but he will make up for that with his attitude, desire and focus. It happened to me as well.
“What happened seemed normal to me,” was Mascherano's take on David Villa and Lionel Messi's argument last weekend. “It was just a discussion. It may have looked ugly, but there are no bad vibes. If anything it shows that the desire in the squad is healthy.”
The Argentine admitted he would like to starting coaching when he retires, and revealed his role models.
“I would like to coach some time in the future, and implement things Rafa Benitez and Pep Guardiola showed me. They taught me many things.
“I have had many talks with Pep about football since he left. We have exchanged views, but the important thing is to listen and to use the things he's taught me in the future.”
