‘We can’t relax’

Barcelona stretched their La Liga lead over Real Madrid to a substantial eight points with a comfortable 3-0 win over Sevilla on Sunday.

The Catalans, aiming to win their first Spanish title since 2019, took full advantage of Real Madrid's defeat to Real Mallorca earlier in the day to extend their lead at the top of the table.

However, coach Xavi Hernandez said Barca would not allow any "euphoria" to creep in. 

"I don't know if we're the most reliable team in the league. We are in a good moment, but this changes. We can't relax," said Xavi.

Xavi also asked his players to keep working with 'humility', insisting that their work is far from over.

"This is a long race and we have to keep working with humility. We are building something very good, but nothing has been won. Only the Super Cup. We are hungry," Xavi added. 

However, goals from Jordi Alba, Gavi, and Raphinha secured all three points for the hosts and that left Xavi a very satisfied manager.

But Xavi still considered Real Madrid as favourites in La Liga and urged his players to shut the door on a potential Madrid comeback.

"They are still the favourites because they are the reigning La Liga and Champions League champions," said Xavi.

"I know that Real Madrid will keep competing until the end. There have been historic comebacks, we can't let that happen."