Josep Maria Bartomeu reiterated the need for Barcelona to show unity following Thursday’s 5-0 Copa del Rey victory over Elche.
The Catalan giants went some way towards banishing reports of unrest by battering the Valencians, and the President was delighted with their performance in light of Atletico Madrid's trip to Camp Nou at the weekend.
“We have one foot in the quarter-finals. The fans enjoyed themselves, and it was a typical Copa del Rey match,” he told reporters after the game.
“The team played like they always have and showed they were prepared to fight and motivated. It was a midweek game and a cold night, but everyone tried their best.
“We must come together and support each other. If we can do that, we’ll be successful.
“The Barca’s socios are very strong when they’re united. I hope we remain responsible and that our union makes us stronger.
“Atleti must be the favourites as they’re champions. They beat [Real] Madrid in a very interesting manner.
“The next game will decide who will top the table, although there are still a lot of matches to go.
“[Atleti and Madrid] are two very good teams, Atletico Madrid have quite an advantage, but it’d be over two legs and any opponents would be difficult.”
