Xavi Aims Slight Dig at Real Madrid After Defeat to Atletico

• Barcelona manager Xavi appeared to aim a slight dig at Real Madrid
• The 43-year-old said that Atletico Madrid deserved to win the Madrid Derby against Real on Sunday
• After Real's defeat, Barcelona now occupy the top spot in the table

Barcelona boss Xavi appeared to direct a subtle jibe at Real Madrid following their disappointing 3-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid in the Madrid derby on Sunday night.

The defeat saw Madrid's 100% start to the 2023/24 season come to an end, which gave Barcelona an opportunity to occupy the top spot in the table.

Barcelona and Girona are also the only unbeaten teams left in La Liga this season. The reigning La Liga champions were headed for defeat on Saturday but produced a spectacular comeback from 0-2 down to take all three points against Celta Vigo at home.

Joao Felix opens up on his preferred playing position at Barcelona to Xavi

Football

They now sit top of the table with 16 points, one ahead of Real Madrid and six ahead of Atletico Madrid, who have played one game less.

The performances in the first six games set up a highly anticipated first El Clasico of the season on October 28th.

Xavi aims slight dig at Real Madrid

Speaking ahead of Barcelona's clash with Mallorca on Tuesday night, Xavi revealed that he watched the Madrid derby, saying he loved what he saw from Atletico.

“I saw it, it was a great game, especially from Atlético, with intensity and generosity in the work. A great game of football. I only saw the game, it’s a very favourable result for Atlético, a very important win,” he said, via Barca Universal.

Madrid fans surely won't like that comment, especially from a Barcelona icon like Xavi. In the last four games, each side has won two games.

Joao Felix continues hot streak, scores on Champions League debut for Barcelona: Video

Football

Xavi led Barcelona to the La Liga title last season for the first time since 2019, per the Athletic. Considering the financial mess Barca are in, the 43-year-old has done a commendable job.

Morata haunts Real Madrid

Sports Brief earlier reported on Atletico Madrid striker Alvaro Morata haunting his former club.

The former Chelsea, Real Madrid, and Juventus striker scored a double to seal the three points for the hosts and reach a new milestone in the process.

The brace from Morata means he has now scored five goals against Real Madrid in nine appearances.