Gerard Pique considered that Barcelona did ‘play well’ in defeating Milan on Wednesday night, but that they could also ‘play better’.
The Catalans recorded a 3-1 win at the Camp Nou to secure passage to the Last 16 of the Champions League, but their Italian opponents enjoyed a share of the ball and the chances, particularly in the second half.
“We played well, and created lots of opportunities,” mused Pique, who scored an own goal before half-time, to UEFA’s official website after the game.
“I think Milan only had perhaps one shot on target. You could say we deserved a little more luck with some of our chances but in general lines we are definitely improving – the only thing is that we are Barcelona and we can clearly play still better than this.
“However, we are definitely going in the right direction. The tempo of the play is increasing as the season develops.
“We had a new Coach and step by step he's teaching us more about precisely what he demands of us and we are both taking hold of and applying his concepts. You can see that in our play.”
Lionel Messi broke a run of three games without a goal to score Barca’s first and third goals.
“I almost think he has given us so much, over so many years that maybe there's not so much left to say even after a game like this.
“Even while he's closing in on the all-time Champions League record for goals. Maybe the idea is just to enjoy him for all the time we have him here.
“The more he brings to the party the more welcome it will be from all of us. Let me tell you when you have the best player ever in your team, it's great!”
