Fernandez backs Barcelona to emerge from slump

News
By published

Barcelona's nine-point lead in La Liga has evaporated and they are out of the Champions League, but Robert Fernandez is keeping the faith.

Barcelona technical secretary Robert Fernandez backed the team to overcome their slump in form and maintain a challenge for a Liga and Copa del Rey double.

Luis Enrique's side lost their third successive league fixture at home to Valencia on Sunday, with their nine-point advantage nullified by Atletico Madrid, who sit joint top on 76 points.

"The team was very upset last night, especially because of the way they lost," said Fernandez on Barca TV.

"Professionals are always looking in the mirror and they know they must improve, but no one said it would be easy and everyone is convinced they can win five games.

"We have to be very proud of the team's effort despite Sunday's defeat against Valencia. They have to win and that conditions your play. We are very excited for the home stretch of La Liga.

"People reacted positively [against Valencia] and we really appreciate it, especially in such difficult times.

"I remember when we were down 1-0 to Atletico [in the Champions League quarter-final first-leg, which Barca won 2-1] and the fans were able to help us in a very difficult time.

"It was a blow [to go out of the Champions League] because everyone was very excited, but we have La Liga and the Copa del Rey."