It was Xavi Hernandez to come up with a strong response back then.
Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona side were so good that Real Madrid once reportedly suspected them of doping.
In 2011, Cadena COPE reported that the Whites were ready to appear before the Spanish FA and ask for more serious anti-doping control because of the ‘doubtful reputation’ of Barca’s medical staff.
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez was among the first people to react to these rumours, assuring that he didn’t request any changes to the doping policy.
However, these reports seriously spoiled the changing room atmosphere.
“It is a bit of macabre information. No comment. These are very fat lies and we are calm. There are people who are unhappy about Barca’s wins. I have the feeling that certain limits are being exceeded,” Xavi told the media back then.
“Everyone dares to say atrocities but that makes us stronger. They serve as extra motivation for us. Being here and winning titles is wonderful but what they say makes our inner anger come out. They help us win titles,” he added.
Wow, what a captain-like speech from Xavi. Just shows how mentally strong Barca were during Pep’s reign.
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