FCBARCELONA.CAT

30.07.2008 23:52

Guardiola: "I am very satisfied"

David Saura (enviat especial)

Pep Guardiola was pleased with FC Barcelona's performance in their 3-1 victory against Fiorentina on Wednesday evening and told reporters he was satisfied.

Goals from Carles Puyol, Jeffren and Bojan Krkic saw the Blaugrana triumph in the Stadio Artemio Franchi and the new coach stated that he was happy with the result, the incorporation of the new players, Messi's display and the positioning of his team overall.

"Positionally we have done well in every area," Guardiola said. "The movement of the ball was also good despite the fact that the pitch was very slow and that caused us problems. We have won against a good side. I think the team is playing at a good level. In general, that gives us a certain confidence to confront the next few games."

Changing roles

Reflecting on Messi's performance up front, the trainer stated: "He is a strong player mentally and I wanted to see him that position. These are pre-season games and the time to try things." Guardiola then explained that he started with Pedrito "to see how he coped against strong opposition." Xavi, Andrés Iniesta, Puyol, Seydou Keita and Touré Yaya all appeared and the coach said he was pleased to have been able to give them a run-out.