By Alex Molina / info@eurohoops.net
A heavy defeat against Panathinaikos has left FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Pascual delivering one of his most critical post-match assessments to date, labeling his team’s performance as “a disaster” and accepting full responsibility for the result.
Speaking candidly after the game, Pascual did not attempt to soften the blow of the loss, instead acknowledging the clear superiority of the opposition. “They were much better than us. It was a disaster until the final whistle,” he said. “This is one of the three worst games since I’ve been here, along with Monaco and Real Madrid. They were very similar matches—when we fall behind, we give up.”
The coach highlighted a recurring psychological issue within his squad, pointing to a pattern of collapse under pressure. Although Barcelona showed signs of life after halftime, Pascual admitted the reaction came too late. “We had a response in the second half, but it keeps happening—we break down and become blocked,” he explained. “It’s a very painful defeat. We were in good form, but today they exposed us and we were not up to the level required.”
Avoiding deeper discussion on broader structural issues, Pascual instead turned the focus inward. “I don’t want to talk about this, especially after a match where I feel entirely responsible for the embarrassing performance we put on. That’s all there is to it. I’m the one standing here, and I bear the ultimate responsibility. When the season is over, there will be time to discuss many things and explain everything. For now, until the very end, I will try to remain as calm as possible and ensure that everyone is on the same page: players, management, press, and fans. When it’s all over, there will be time to talk, assess the situation, and see where we are, where we’ll be, and if we’ll even be here.”
Pascual also expressed concern over the team’s mentality, suggesting a lack of belief played a decisive role in the defeat. “What I need is for the team to push to the limit of its possibilities. Today’s performance is very disappointing. There were many factors, but this is one of those losses that, as a Barcelona coach who has won many things, feels very bad,” he said. “The team stopped believing.”
Finally, the coach addressed the supporters directly, acknowledging their frustration and calling for unity during a difficult period. “I understand them perfectly—it’s the same thing we feel. We are very sorry,” Pascual said. “I said from the beginning that we would suffer. I just ask that we all stay together.”