Torres, Puig, Lenglet and Alba speak out after Barcelona blow away Osasuna

Barcelona bounced back to winning ways and did so in some style as they thrashed CA Osasuna 4-0 at Camp Nou on Sunday night.

A first-half brace from Ferran Torres put the Blaugrana in the driver’s seat. Fellow January signing Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang added a third before the break to effectively kill the tie off.

The second half saw forgotten man Riqui Puig get on the scoresheet with a fine goal as Xavi Hernandez & co. picked up a comfortable victory, moving back to the third spot that had been usurped by Atletico Madrid on Friday night.

It was a tremendous attacking display from the Catalan giants, especially in the first half, with Torres and Ousmane Dembele, in particular, standing out.

Speaking about the result after the game, Torres said: “We are very happy with the victory. That’s the most important thing, to keep fighting.

“We have to work so that when there are chances they are converted. Against Galatasaray we didn’t play a good game, we are self-critical.”

The January arrival praised partner-in-crime, Dembele, saying: “We know the quality that Dembélé has, he is a differential player in many games and we are not surprised by how he plays.”

The upcoming week is a critical one for Barcelona with two important fixtures coming up. Talking about it, Torres added: “First it’s Galatasaray and then the Clásico will come. Madrid are at a great level… But we are too.”

Riqui Puig also expressed his joy after getting on the scoresheet in what was a rare appearance for the young midfielder. “I’m so happy,” he said.

The La Masia graduate admitted his situation was not desirable but was glad to get the opportunity to play. “It’s true that my situation has been difficult. But I’m very happy to play. I’d like to thank Xavi and the staff. Also the fans and my colleagues,” he said.

Clement Lenglet also made a rare appearance when he replaced Gerard Pique in the second half. The occasion marked his 150th game for Barcelona, and reacting to reaching the milestone, the Frenchman said: “Reaching 150 games for this club is amazing. I hope I can play many more.”

On the performance on the night, he added: “We knew what we had to do. We played a very complete game. On Thursday, we had to move the ball quicker. Today, it was amazing.”

Veteran defender Jordi Alba also spoke about the performance, insisting that the team was enjoying a good run of form.

“We’re in a good dynamic, we’re playing well, all the players go through more complicated moments, but I’ve always stood up for the team, ever since I’ve been here,” he said.

Alba also hailed the impact of the manager, saying: “Since Xavi’s arrival, The team has improved a lot.”

With his two assists on the night, Dembele went level with Alba as the top-assister for Barcelona in La Liga this season (7). Reacting to that, the Spaniard added: “For a full-back it is difficult to be the leading assister, but I hope more players beat me.”

Source: BarçaTV+