Xavi Hernandez was frustrated with FC Barcelona’s attackers due to their poor display in front of the goal during a 1-1 draw against Valencia at Mastella on Saturday night.
Barcelona were the better team as they did not only dominate possession (64%) but also had more shots overall (16) and on goal as well (8).
The Catalan club accumulated 3.24 xG (expected goals) compared to Valencia’s 0.54 but both teams only managed to score one goal.
“We deserved to win, we did everything. What happened over the past weeks with regard to effectiveness was repeated,” Xavi said speaking after the game. “This match pretty much sumarises the season for us.”
Barcelona's attack consisting of Robert Lewandowski, Joao Felix (even though he scored), Raphinha, and Lamine Yamal has shown inconsistency as all three players have been struggling in front of the goal.
“We train finishing but it depends on the players’ confidence,” he said with frustration about the team’s inability to convert chances.
“We have to be one of the teams with the worst finishing in Europe. I am very frustrated today.”
Xavi then talked about Gavi, who is set to remain out for the rest of the season following an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) tear during the international break with Spain.
“We miss Gavi at all times," he added. “We cannot allow Guillamon to shoot like that from just outside the box. Opponent defenses are very aggressive and we have to be the same. We have to improve a lot in defense."
Barcelona are now winless in their last three matches — a 4-2 defeat against Girona, a 3-2 loss against Royal Antwerp, and a 1-1 draw vs Valencia — and Xavi is quite aware of the growing pressure.
The Catalan club is now currently ranked third in La Liga, seven points behind league leaders Girona and five behind arch-rivals Real Madrid.
However, if Los Blancos beat Villarreal and Girona overcome Alaves on Sunday and Monday respectively, Barcelona will be seven points behind their arch-rivals and nine behind the table-toppers.