Before victory over Espanyol, Oscar Hernandez, Xavi's brother and assistant, discussed the decision to start winger Ilias Akhomach.

Akhomach was rewarded for an excellent season with Barca B so far.

“He's a winger who runs, he can beat a man one on one, he tries things, makes the pitch wide. In our way of playing we need that. He deserves the chance," said Oscar.

He also spoke about Espanyol: “They are hard working and have various ideas. They can play low block, or press well to stop counters."

On Barça, he added: “The team has trained well but bit by bit we've been incorporating (internationals), we're very happy with how they're getting the idea, the plan is clear."