FCBARCELONA.CAT

26.09.2009 22:42

Guardiola: “The team’s spirit comforts me”

Anna Segura

Highly satisfied with the win at La Rosaleda, Josep Guardiola pointed out that Barça have never found it easy to win at grounds like these.

From the day Josep Guardiola took charge of the Barça first team, he has only shown respect for any team they have faced. He knew that Malaga would not be easy, and was glad his men got the job done. “The team’s spirit comforts me. That is what brings wins”.

The Barça coach said that “it was a very aggressive game and we had to work very hard.” As usual, Guardiola had no intention of speaking about the referee, but did admit that there were one or two ‘buts’.

Demanding Malaga

Guardiola observed that Malaga came out in the first few minutes “much stronger than we did. But after 15-20 minutes we started winning control”. Having studied Juan Ramon López Muñiz’s side, he knew “they deal with pressure well. They are very physical and very well organised. We found it hard, but it all worked out in the end”.

Ibra and effort

After twisting an ankle against Racing, Josep Guardiola decided to leave Ibrahimovic on the bench. But Henry’s injury meant the Swede was sent on in the 28th minute, and scored the first goal. Guardiola knew Ibra was not in perfect condition and said “I’m grateful for his effort when he was not entirely fit”.