Copa del Rey defending champions Barcelona title hopes came to a premature end as they crashed out of the competition after losing 2-3 to Athletic Club at San Mames on Thursday night.
Xavi Hernandez saw his defensive line struggle to keep pace with the much more youthful Bilbao attackers.
Iker Muniain gave the host the lead in just two minutes of the game, it was clear that they are determined to dominate over the Catalan giants.
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Barça struck back through Ferran Torres in the 20th minute. Fans were delighted to see the latest addition making a contribution, and justifying Xavi’s determination to sign him from Manchester City.
Nico Williams was always a threat throughout the match, Inigo Martinez made it 2-1 through Muniain’s freekick in the closing ’86’ mins before Pedri levelled things up in stoppage time.
However, Barcelona were not able to grab the momentum in the extra time as a handball from Jordi Alba sent Muniain to the penalty spot. Ter Stegen had no chance, and it was the end of the Copa del Rey campaign for the Blaugrana
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez said: “Bilbao played very, very well. We tried to compete, but it’s been tough. The game was very intense. They were better than us in set pieces, and it was very clear. I saw a very strong Athletic. It’s tough. Now we have to focus on the league, the Europa League, and keep working hard.”
“The match was so difficult. Athletic is so physical, so strong. We could never really control the course of the game. We were not comfortable. Congratulations to them for their intensity level. As for us, we have to keep working hard and believe in the project,” he added.
“The most important thing is to recover mentally. It’s a massive blow to lose two titles in a few days. Now what? We have no choice but to continue. We have to try and win every game,” he said.
When asked if Ousmane Dembele’s presence would have altered the outcome of the game: “No. I don’t think Dembélé’s presence would have changed anything. He’s an important player, but we have taken that decision as a club. We all agree.”
Xavi refused to lay the blame at Jordi Alba for the defeat after enduring a torrid night at left-back. “He suffered from discomfort early on. I will not speak on any individual player today. The whole defense suffered,” the Barça boss added.
Recently-returned Ansu Fati and other Barcelona players picked up injuries during the game. Speaking of the injuries on the night, the manager said: “Jordi Alba, Piqué and Pedri all finished the game with some discomfort. Pedri seemed fine. I think it’s nothing. With Ansu, we’ll have to wait for the tests tomorrow.”
Barcelona returns to action on Sunday when they face Deportivo Alaves in Spanish La Liga.
