Adriano has praised Barcelona’s defensive solidity this season under new boss Tata Martino, admitting that the team are ‘paying attention’.
The Blaugrana have only let in eight goals all season, and the Brazilian full-back has conceded that the Catalan club are more wary at the back this term.
“[The key to our success is] paying attention. We are very concentrated in our matches,” he told the club’s official website.
“Due to our characteristics, we know that we have to be very on top of every play. The fact that we get to know each other more each year also has an impact, this helps on defence.
“The truth is that we’re very pleased with our year so far. Not only on defence, we are also performing well in the midfielder and when we attack.”
Asked if this was his best patch of form since signing for the Camp Nou side, Adriano replied: “I think it is. Because I have confidence. Having played so many consecutive games is very important psychologically.
“Before I only played two matches and I didn’t know if I’d be fit enough for a third game. Now, my consistency has given me confidence, and the manager and the group believe I’m reliable, that they can count on me for the many matches to come.
“I try to improve every year. Every time I play I’m very aware of what I did in the last game and what the manager asks me to do.
“My team-mates know me more and I have a feeling that I’m on better form this year than I was when I first came. For me it’s a very positive evolution in terms of form, tactics, and playing time.”
