Ivan Rakitic admits Barcelona “were better against 11 than against 10” in the Clasico as “I’d have liked Sergio Ramos to stay on the pitch”.
Rakitic’s long-range curler helped Barca to a 3-2 win against Real Madrid, but the result was marred by Ramos’ red card for a two-footed lunge on Lionel Messi, and the midfielder felt his side “should’ve been smarter” with their man advantage.
“I think we saw tiredness creeping into both teams. Three or four days ago, we had a tough match in the Champions League,” he said after the game.
“There were chances in both boxes and the game was open.
“We knew we could win, even at 2-2, and without doing Madrid any injustice, I think we deserved to win.
“We have to keep going and turn our situation in the League around.
“Ramos? We were better against 11 than against 10. I’d have liked Ramos to stay on the pitch. We had to be calmer.
“With one more player, we should’ve been smarter. The win showed it.
“I think you can play Leo Messi wherever you want. If he feels like it, he’ll blow up wherever he is.
“We’re happy with him and the victory. There are still many games left, but we have to enjoy the moment.”
