Barcelona Manager Ernesto Valverde Praises Opponents Leganes After 3-0 Barca Win

Ernesto Valverde admitted that Barcelona’s 3-0 win at Leganes was “misleading and excessive” as they “made it difficult for us and had a great game.”

Luis Suarez's double and Paulinho's goal near the final whistle led Barca to their 11th victory in 12 games, keeping them well ahead of second-placed Valencia and 11 points ahead of Atletico and Real Madrid.

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“It’s true that I protested it a lot because Amrabat’s a player who always looks for contact and relies a lot on his opponents,” he said in the post-match press conference.

He bemoaned the yellow card defender Gerard Pique received, which leaves him suspended for the trip to Valencia next week.

“That’s why it could’ve been as much a foul for them as it was for us. The yellow seemed excessive, but in any case, it was something that could’ve happened and it did.

“The result was misleading and excessive because Leganes made it difficult for us and had a great game, while there were times when we weren’t brilliant.

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“They’re very secure at the back, as shown by the fact that they’ve only conceded two goals in five games."

He was quick to praise his forwards, even though star man Lionel Messi had an uncharacteristically quiet game.

“We already know our forwards always cling well with our opponents’ goal and that sooner or later, the goals will come.

“Now people will calm down about Suarez. We’ll see what happens next. Ter Stegen? He’s having a great season. He’s been conveying great sobriety and serenity.

“The team? We’ve had some great games, like at Sevilla, against Juventus and Athletic…

“The big matches help you take steps forward, although we’re aware that we have things to improve on.”