Barcelona may have secured a 2-1 win against Atletico Madrid, but their UEFA Champions League journey came to a frustrating end, and the reactions from the dressing room revealed a mix of pride, anger, and belief in the long-term project.
One of the standout performers on the night, Dani Olmo, was named MVP by UEFA.
However, despite the individual recognition, the Spaniard made it clear that the result overshadowed everything.
Speaking after the game, Olmo subtly pointed towards refereeing decisions, particularly those involving Clément Turpin, as a recurring theme in his reflections.
Expressing his frustration while still acknowledging the team’s effort, Olmo said,
“We’re not leaving satisfied. We wanted to go through, but we know we have to do much more because they are not going to give us anything.
“In fact, they’re going to take things away from us. We’re a young team; we have to learn, improve and keep pushing,” he began.
Olmo’s analysis
The attacking midfielder also reflected on key moments that defined the tie, highlighting how small details, both tactical and officiating-related, played a role in Barcelona’s elimination.
While acknowledging Atletico’s strengths, he did not shy away from referencing controversial calls. Breaking down the decisive phases of the match, Olmo added,
“Atletico are also a team that play well. They know how to hurt us, and they took advantage of a moment where we were slow to react to score their goal.
“But there was a dubious decision, such as the penalty (by Llorente on Olmo himself), and Eric’s sending-off with Jules right there, but that’s no excuse.”
Barcelona players want to get past the elimination. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Despite the disappointment, Olmo struck a forward-looking tone, insisting that Barcelona’s project under Hansi Flick is moving in the right direction, even if results in Europe have not yet followed.
“We have to keep improving; we’ve been losing in the same way for two years now.
“We have to keep pushing because the vision is clear, the project is successful, and we can bring joy to the fans.”
Frenkie de Jong takes the stage
Meanwhile, Frenkie de Jong also shared his thoughts after the final whistle at the Metropolitano, echoing a similar mix of frustration and optimism.
The Dutch midfielder, who featured late in the game, emphasised the team’s effort and fine margins that ultimately decided the tie.
“We played a very good game, we tried everything, we gave it our all, but I feel that luck wasn’t on our side,” he began.
He continued by stressing the importance of maintaining perspective, especially given the youth and growth trajectory of the squad.
Despite questions around tactical decisions and substitutions, De Jong stood by the collective effort.
“We have to move on; we’re growing every year, we have a team that can compete in every competition. We were down to ten men, which is always more difficult.
“Did the substitutions not help? I don’t know, everyone gave their all. Not winning the Champions League doesn’t mean we’re not on the right track.
“If we keep going like this, it’ll come our way eventually,” he added.
Source: Mundo Deportivo
