Barcelona coach Xavi thrilled with players after thumping defeat of Sevilla

Barcelona coach Xavi hailed his players for their 3-0 rout of Sevilla.

Xavi was delighted over the way in which Barcelona won, a victory that moved his side eight points clear at the top of LaLiga.

“We look at both the points difference and the performance today as a sign we are in a moment of great confidence,” said Xavi.

“We have been unbeaten for many games and it was important to win comfortably. In the last few games that we had played against a low block it had been difficult for us and this time we created a lot of chances. Things are coming together because the work of the players is extraordinary.

“It was a key match because the teams below had lost. Real Madrid are eight points behind us and although it’s still early days, it’s an important distance. We always think about where we come from and now we are in a privileged situation. We like being leaders, having this advantage and the good feeling the team is giving us. We’ve played two very good games this week and that gives us a lot of confidence.”

Xavi, though, did not want to go over the top: “I don’t know if we’re the most reliable team in the league. We are in a good moment, but this changes. We can’t relax. This is a long race and we have to keep working with humility. The team is buying into the message. We are building something very good, but nothing has been won. Only the Super Cup. We are hungry.

“Madrid can beat any team and they still have to come to Camp Nou. Next matchday we go to a ground where Madrid lost (Villarrreal). Every game is going to be a war and it’s not over yet. I don’t see us as more of a favourite, but more of a candidate. The favourites are still Real Madrid, who are the current champions of La Liga and the Champions League.

“We have the capacity to win all the titles we have left, but we have to prove it on the pitch. Euphoria is fine, but it has to be curbed.”

On Sergi Busquets‘ injury, he said: “He’s twisted his ankle and we hope it’s not serious. It’s clear that he has a sprain, but we’re going to see the extent. Tomorrow he will undergo tests.”