Xavi: “Atletico Madrid derby victory was deserved”

Barcelona Manager Xavi Hernandez commented on the derby battle which was won by Atletico Madrid at the expense of Real Madrid 3-1 in the sixth round of the La Liga. Barcelona Manager Xavi Hernandez admitted that Atletico Madrid looked ‘very strong’ following their derby day victory over Real Madrid, but refused to be drawn into whether Carlo Ancelotti’s side was weaker than last year. “I saw it, it was a great game, especially from Atletico. Whether Ancelotti was wrong or not, I don’t know. I saw it but I didn’t analyze it. It is an important victory for Atletico.” He also refused to be dragged into whether the Real Madrid squad were better or worse than last season. “I always see them as strong, but like all teams, they have strengths and weaknesses. We’re paying attention to Mallorca, I have not analyzed Real Madrid. Atletico looked very strong and the victory was deserved.” Regarding Pedri's status, he commented: "Pedri has very good feelings. We will see when he returns. We have options in the middle, such as Roberto, who occupies different positions. We will exploit him, like Fermin as well."  For now, FC Barcelona now reigns supreme after Matchday six and currently sits top of the La Liga table with 16 points to their name. Atletico Madrid's balance rose to 10 points in fifth place in the La Liga table, while Real Madrid's froze at 15 points in third place in the La Liga table.