Andres Iniesta believes Barcelona will recover from the injury suffered to Victor Valdes and end the season strongly.
The goalkeeper tore his anterior cruciate ligament in the 3-0 win over Celta Vigo on Wednesday and will miss the rest of the season, the World Cup and has likely played his last game for the club.
Valdes had already announced his decision to leave Camp Nou this summer when his contract is due to expire.
Iniesta admitted to reporters after the match that Barca were shaken by Valdes’ injury but the knowledge that these things can happen in football means it won’t have a lasting effect.
“The game changed with Valdes’ injury. It’s awful news,” the midfielder added.
“What’s important is that he recovers well. This can happen in football. We play at a fast pace and there isn’t time to take things in.
“We are Barca and we’re prepared to live with these incidents which are at the limit.
“There’s no choice. You have to look at what you have and try to get back what you’ve lost.
“We don’t have time to mourn. If you sleep you get passed by. We’re fighting for the League and will be until the end.”
Iniesta was substituted at half-time with a thigh niggle but says he will be fit to play Espanyol on Saturday.
“I noticed a little problem. The match was comfortable and it made sense not to risk anything [so I can be ready for the next game].
“The derby is more than a match for both teams. It’s very special considering the situation we’re in.
“We’ll go there trying to win but we know it’s always difficult. We’re up for it.”
Iniesta was asked for his thoughts on Lionel Messi and the finely-tuned relationship between the pair.
“It’s easy to understand things with Leo,” the midfielder admitted.
“As the season has gone along he’s been feeling even better. He can’t always be the same.
“The important thing is to get into peak shape and be there as long as possible.
“Now it’s been six weeks and we have to enjoy it.
“We’ve known for a long time what our capabilities are. Messi is always ready for the pass.”