Football: Xavi urges Barca to find motivation to finish second after defeat by Rayo

Barcelona's coach Xavi during the La Liga match between Barcelona and Rayo Vallecano at Camp Nou on April 24, 2022. PHOTO: AFP

(REUTERS) - Barcelona are a team that are used to finishing in first place but now must find the motivation to ensure they end the season second behind arch-rivals Real Madrid in LaLiga, said coach Xavi Hernandez.

Barca's 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano at the Nou Camp on Sunday (April 24) marked the first time the club had lost three straight home games and all but sealed the league for rivals Real Madrid.

Real need only one point from their last five games to secure the title, while Barcelona are second on 63 points, level with Sevilla.

Barcelona were also eliminated from the Europa League earlier this month.

"We were all fired up with the great run in the league and the Europa League," Xavi said. "I understand it's not as motivating for the fans and players to fight for second place. But we have to be in the Champions League, we want to hear the Champions League music next season.

"There is a lot at stake. In Barcelona's history it's about coming first, but we have to understand and motivate ourselves to finish second."

Barca next host Mallorca on Sunday (May 1).

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