We've got more than enough quality in this squad to win the EL and finish top 4. I mean even when we were disastrous we were well in the mix for top 4.
Hard to win EL with a flycatcher between the goalposts.
Xavi said it correctly yesterday. Victory is hugely important (such victories boost self-confidence and belief in the system/philosophy), but there isn't won anything yet. Barca are only in the EL round of 16. Need to keep both feet on the ground and keep working hard!
Time to put the focus back on the league and on Sunday the next tough opponent awaits Barca in San Mames. The recovery time is relatively short again, hence the motto: regenerate, gain momentum and crown this great week with a win on Sunday!
The trend is right. The team is gaining more and more self-confidence, the competition is fierce (and drives the players against each other), the team is much fitter (and suddenly fewer players are getting injured), but the situation remains tense. There isn't achieved anything yet.
Last but not least: Xavi deserves the praise, but let's not forget that this wouldn't be possible without Alemany's great work. He brought Xavi a whole new, more than decent new forward line in the winter market. The difference in quality could be seen on the pitch right away. Barca has won on the transfer market! No other team has gained so much in the traditionally difficult winter market. And all that under very difficult conditions of the financially severe situation, especially due to the restrictive salary cap. Total masterpiece Mateu!