The new manager enjoyed a winning start at Camp Nou as FC Barcelona defeated Espanyol in the Catalan derby.
Xavi Hernandez was delighted to see his debut as Barcelona manager end in a ‘deserved victory’.
The 41-year-old became the 35th coach to win on his Barca debut at Camp Nou on Saturday evening as the Blaugrana overcame Catalan rivals Espanyol 1-0.
Despite the visitors’ late attempts to draw level, Memphis Depay’s penalty proved enough to seal the victory. The three points have moved Barcelona up to sixth place in La Liga. However, while pleased with the result, Xavi conceded there are still things to improve on.
“What I liked most from the player was their attitude. Of course, there are things we have to improve. In fact, there are many”, he told BarcaTV.
“We are not in the best situation and Espanyol gave us a lot of problems late on. But in general, it was a deserved victory and it is a great joy.
“The crowd has been wonderful. I haven’t been to the Camp Nou in almost six years and the atmosphere has changed a lot, but I loved it.”
Barcelona return to action on Tuesday for a Champions League match against Benfica at home.
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