Rodri warns Barcelona to learn from Sevilla comeback after ‘same mistake’

Rodri has called on Barcelona to show greater composure and control in possession after they recovered from a goal down to beat Sevilla 3-1 at Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan on Saturday.

The Spain international said the match had exposed an important weakness after Barcelona struggled to keep the ball during the first half. He urged his team-mates to improve their passing and manage the tempo more effectively.

“We gave the ball away far too often without need in the first half,” Rodri said in comments highlighted by Tribuna.

“Sometimes we have to be calmer with the ball. This match required more composure and controlled passing.”

Barcelona eventually regained control of the game, with Rodri’s performance helping to change the flow of the contest. Raphinha completed his hat-trick as they secured the 3-1 victory.

Rodri said the team should treat the problems they encountered as a lesson rather than repeat them.

“I feel this match taught us a very important lesson. If you keep making the same mistake, why do it again?” he said.

The midfielder also recalled advice from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, who had repeatedly stressed the importance of retaining possession.

“Pep Guardiola used to tell me something, always: ‘There is no system that beats keeping the ball on your own’,” Rodri added.

He made a similar point in a separate comment, saying: “We had to be calmer and not lose balls. That was it.”

Barcelona’s ability to recover at Sevilla ensured they left Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan with all three points, but Rodri’s comments highlighted the need for greater control from the opening stages of matches.