Bartomeu: People try to downplay Barcelona’s achievements when we win

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Barcelona have won a league and cup double this season, something which Josep Maria Bartomeu believes deserves more credit.

The club president spoke about how Barcelona’s success has been downplayed, even if he said that he and his directors don’t focus on this.

“When we win something those far from here try to take away from it by speaking about referees and guards of honour and by exaggerating controversies,” Bartomeu said at an appearance at the club’s senate.

“But we know to keep a distance from this controversy that tries to belittle us.

“We have concentrated on doing our jobs.”

He went on to speak about Ernesto Valverde and the work he has done, praising the way they bounced back from the defeat to Roma.

“One year on we can say that Valverde has more than met expectations and he has earned everyone’s respect and our confidence with his talent, his way of being and his approach,” he said.

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“The team managed the departure of Neymar and the Supercopa de Espana defeat with a coach who had just arrived.

“The Champions League elimination was tough, but the team were able to overcome that defeat to Roma.”

Andres Iniesta’s exit was also touched upon, with Bartomeu hoping the captain could return one day.

“I am sure he will return home one day and we’ll be waiting for him with open arms because his contribution to this club isn’t finished,” Bartomeu said.

“He forms part of our history and will also form part of our future.”

Iniesta will play for the club one final time against Real Sociedad this weekend.

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