Javier Aguirre reflected that Espanyol’s season is not about picking up results against the likes of Barcelona, who are at ‘an impossible level’ to match.
Los Pericos lost the Catalan derby 4-0 against a comfortable Blaugrana to leave their Mexican tactician with no argument post-match.
“Barcelona are at a superlative level. We were numb and overly concerned, for we did not do much damage and gradually we lowered our weapons. But, with both our shortcomings and virtue, the team competed,” reflected Aguirre at the end.
“The odds were 34-1 and we knew it was not going to be easy and in our League we are looking to pick up eight to 10 wins against those who are fighting with us.
“No-one in the team has disappointed me. It is my fault for imagining any other scenario and for missing anything and, in general, we must forget this defeat and move on to next weekend as that arrives with a direct rival [Celta Vigo].
“We were not level with our opponent in this game, no way. In this stadium, at this level, for Espanyol it is impossible.
“Seeing Vilanova in the bench? The greeting was the same as with other colleagues. I saw him and spoke with him and his assistants. With Jordi Roura and everyone. It is a luxury, in honesty, to see this team play, to participate in the same League as them.”
The Coach was asked if he agreed with Miroslav Djukic’s claim at Real Valladolid of learning from Barca.
“Anything you say or do that will add to the string of accolades and labels that this team has earned. They are having a spectacular year. Everything is working. They know what to do.
“Individually they are mentally strong, the transition from Pep to Tito was natural. They are a really powerful team in their own ground, with their supporters, it is even more difficult to face them.”
