Martino admits to ‘average’ season

Tata Martino has admitted that Barcelona’s season has been ‘average’ by their standards, despite preparing to face Atletico Madrid in a Liga decider.

The Blaugrana are hosting the capital club on Saturday, knowing that a win would see them crowned Liga champions.

But despite this, the Argentine Coach has conceded that their season hasn’t been the best.

“I'm not a sensationalist person,” he told a Press conference. “Butour season has been average, with ups and downs.

“My adjectives won't win us the League but I hope with all my heart that Barça win tomorrow and claim the title. If we do, it won't change me as a person or my opinions.

“I have already said everything that I needed to say and one result won’t change my perspective.

Being opportunistic doesn’t always work in your favour, sometimes you have to analyse the situation when things aren’t turning out as well as you wanted.

“In this profession it’s very difficult to reach a general consensus on anything. There’s always a debate.

“The team deserves to win the title for all they’ve been through and I would be really happy for them if they do it”.

“The toughest moment was what we went through with Tito Vilanova, even though I didn’t have a close relationship with him myself.”

The Coach then commented on the return of a trio of Barca players, a possible tactical switch and news that Lionel Messi will sign a new contract.

“They [Piqué, Jordi Alba and Neymar] might not be in tip-top conditions but we’ve only got one game to get through.

“We’ll evaluate the situation but what’s important is their determination to be with the team and the bravery they have shown, always looking ahead to the future and always with the team in mind.

“We beat Atlético in last year’s Supercup playing with three up front. After that we have used a number of variations, switching Leo, Alexis.

“We won’t be veering away from that too much tomorrow. We have to focus on ourselves and do everything right – I’m sure that Atleti will be trying to do the same.

“It’s a personal issue and I’m sure it will be a relief to him and to the club. What’s good for him is good for the club – for all of us it’s good news.

“Messi is fully focused and Barça always hope that he will have a positive influence on our games.”

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