Barcelona ran riot in their Champions League opener by making light work of Viktoria Plzeň with a 5-1 annihilation.
A Robert Lewandowski hat-trick was the biggest headline of the night, with Franck Kessie scoring his first goal for the club and Ferran Torres also getting on the scoresheet.
Sergi Roberto, who assisted the Polish striker’s first strike reflected on his thoughts on the remainder of the season, after a stunning performance from the hosts at the Spotify Camp Nou.
“I’m very excited for this season”, he succinctly said.
Touching on why he has been on the periphery of things for a while now, the Blaugrana skipper on the night revealed, “I haven’t played as a starter in an official game for almost a year. I was subbed off because I had some discomfort in the adductor, but the doctor told me that it’s nothing serious. Let’s see tomorrow.”
Considering Roberto’s reputation nosedived amongst several of the club’s fanbase for a variety of reasons, the academy graduate came out in his defence after the contest.
“I’ve always been a professional with the club. Things have come out about me which were not true. Last season was complicated because of the surgery I had, and I was playing with discomfort. I’m here to work, and I see that the fans are excited.”
Ferran Torres, who capped off the contest with a finely-taken left-footed volley discussed why competition for places at the club is key.
“Competition makes you a better player, makes you learn, and always keeps you alert. I think it will be positive for the team.”
The Spanish international added, “You have to take advantage of the opportunities the coach gives you.”
The versatile forward also summed up why things are moving in the right direction for Xavi’s men by saying, “The team is working well and the points are important.”
Ultimately, Sergi Roberto and Ferran Torres are an insight into how motivated the duo are in having a significant impact on Barcelona’s season moving forward, which is only good news for the club.