Luis Enrique admitted Barcelona “struggled a lot” during Sunday’s 2-1 win at Malaga in La Liga but was encouraged by his side’s response.
Munir El Haddadi’s goal inside the first two minutes opened the scoring, but the Andalucians came storming back and equalised through Juanpi on the half-hour mark.
And despite Lionel Messi having found the winner early in the second half, the Coach made no bones about the pressure his side were placed under.
“It was a very difficult first half, despite the goal after a minute, but the positive thing was that we reacted,” he said after the game.
“The players aren’t machines. We competed better in the second half but made lots of mistakes in the first.
“We didn’t have a complete game against Malaga, but it’s said that winning without playing well s a characteristic of great teams.
“What did I say at half-time? I don’t remember. Either way, the players are perfectly aware of what they need to be doing.
“We took off Thomas [Vermaelen] because he was carrying a card.
“We tried to focus more and make less mistakes. But overall, we struggled a lot.
“After a first half, in which we were so far below our usual level, we couldn’t play like that again in the second. We were more assured.
“My assessment of Malaga was very good. They constantly caused us problems and that’s unusual for Barca.
“They easily found space behind us and created chances. They’re very tough opponents so, for that, we’re very happy with the result.
“Munir is in sync with the rest of the team.”
