Barcelona's coach Diego Simeone appeared at a press conference after the 4-2 loss against Barcelona in the 28th round of La Liga.

The coach said: "We congratulate our opponent for their determination at the most crucial moment. We had a very good result that didn't last long at all, so we were able to become stronger. Lewandowski's goal brought them energy, confidence, and more attacking play. We had the chance to manage things better on some counter-attacks, but that was intentional; we didn't choose the last pass well. The score was 2-2, the score was 2-3 from a lucky shot, and that's part of the game... Just as we won and drew in Barcelona, this time the result was in their favor."

He added: "Is it difficult to win the league? Barcelona has a postponed match, and it's unknown what might happen. They have an important advantage, which is that we are aware of the reality. We will work on each match individually, focusing on Espanyol and continuing in this manner until the end."

He continued: "Did Lewandowski's goal harm you? We didn't defend the ball well from the start; Lewandowski scored a wonderful goal. It harmed us, of course. It brought us to that stage of doubt. They are good; they have a team that plays extremely well, individually with incredible skill and collectively they play well. We competed very well with our weapons, and that is the positive thing that still stands."

Regarding the substitution of Julian Alvarez: "He had been ill for two days, had a fever the day before, and was also having stomach issues this morning... I wouldn't have put him in the lineup; we talked, he was committed and understood that he gave his all, and I chose to bring on Sorloth, who performed very well and scored another goal."

He added: "When we went 2-0 up, the match was in our favor. I didn't have time to register his goal, and it took me some time to bring in Jimenez. I should have done that before the match started, but they scored. We started talking, and the second one came. That doesn't mean that if he had come, it wouldn't have worked, but the team needed strength. It was clear that Barcelona, with their weapons and great players, would seize the opportunity. It was good, we congratulate you. And we didn't even try to be strong and exploit counter-attacks."

He concluded: "The players and the team as a whole compete and give their utmost. We give our all."

On the team being unlucky: "It doesn't happen by luck. It comes through strength. We were in the first half, then they found that quick result of 2-1, then 2-2, then 2-3 that hit Reinildo... but that's not luck. If Lamine doesn't kick, this wouldn't happen. I can't say it's luck."

He emphasized: "Barcelona plays the best collective football and also has great individual talents. They can score goals through crosses as well; half of their goals will be that way, and it's not an exception. They attack the penalty area, and they have good reactions to everything coming from the other side... Ferran's goal came from something they naturally possess."

He concluded: "How do you lift the team's spirits? To the fans, thank you, and the reception was linked to the players' efforts. It's impressive and appreciated. On Wednesday, we will train with enthusiasm and the same spirit, and we accept what we have."