‘I understand Lewandowski’s anger’ – Xavi explains Barcelona substitution

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez says he understands why Robert Lewandowski wasn’t happy at being substituted against Real Sociedad.

The striker was taken off after 76 minutes of the 2-0 victory at Montjuic and didn’t appear too happy with the decision.

Here’s what Xavi made of it all:

“Lewandowski’s change was for a tactical issue, to be able to press high again, and because this week there are three games,” he told reporters.

“We needed a little more strength. We needed a little more legs. We have made a great effort and Robert has made a very good job. I understand Lewandowski’s anger, I didn’t like being changed either.”

Xavi went on to talk about the game in general and said he was surprised to see his team awarded a late penalty from which they scored to seal the three points.

“I was surprised that he then awarded a penalty. I was complaining about the second handball. I didn’t expect them to award it,” he added.

“Real always makes it difficult for us. Whenever we face them, they are very organized, aggressive. We didn’t expect the line of five. They have been very good.

“La Real seems like a great team to me. It’s an important victory for us. We played a good game overall.”

Monday’s win puts Barcelona back into second place in the table with bottom side Almeria up next.