Rakitic: “There’s the odd thing to improve but I think we played really well”

Rakitic: “There’s the odd thing to improve but I think we played really well”

The Croatian international impressed the fans in his Camp Nou debut

Ivan Rakitic made his first appearance in the Camp Nou on Monday evening and demonstrated his influence in midfield immediately.  Although the opponents didn’t put up much of a fight, Rakitic believes, “it was an important match”.  “We played at a good pace and I think we played really well”.

Speaking after the 6-0 defeat of Club León, he admitted: “There is still the odd thing to improve (but) the fans can go home smiling”.  The midfielder also had the chance last night to show snatches of his ability to fire off shots from long range: “It’s a part of my game.  People already know what I can contribute, but I have to keep improving in every match and every training session”.

Here are some impressions of the match from three more Camp Nou debutantes - Mathieu, Jordi Masip and Munir:

Mathieu

“Playing and wearing a Barça shirt in the Camp Nou is very different.  I’m pleased with the match but it was only a friendly.  I hope to play here for many years”

 “I felt very good alongside Piqué and Bartra.  They are good team-mates”

 “Luis Enrique demands concentration, because we have the ball for a long time”

Masip

"A good performance by the team in general and a good debut in the Camp Nou.  That’s the way to continue”

“About Munir and Samper: “They’re great players with a lot of future.  Last year Barça B had a great season”.  “Samper did a great job in midfield”.  He’s got a big future”.

 “We’re gradually getting the manager’s ideas.  The team is adapting very well”

Munir

I try and do my best in every training session and whenever necessary.  I’m proud to be learning in the first team”

 “My objective is to rise as high as possible and get in the first team”

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