The scoreboard says semi-finals, but the dressing room says disaster averted. Despite punching their ticket to the UEFA Champions League final four for the first time since 2019, Barcelona’s 3-1 defeat to Borussia Dortmund in Germany has left key figures in the squad far from satisfied.
Frenkie de Jong: “Relieved… but disappointed”
If fans expected celebrations, Frenkie de Jong served cold reality instead.
“We didn’t play well… many players didn’t perform,” the Dutch maestro admitted, with the blunt honesty fans don’t always hear after qualification.
While the 5-3 aggregate scoreline favors Barcelona, De Jong was visibly frustrated by the team’s lack of intensity and composure.
“We know we can play much better. It leaves a bitter taste. Tomorrow we’ll be happy about the semis—but tonight, we’re not proud.”
Lewandowski: “We made it easy for them”
Robert Lewandowski didn’t sugarcoat it either. The striker, on the verge of his 100th Barça goal, was brutally honest about the collapse in midfield and the team’s sloppy approach.
“We lacked control… gave the ball away too many times. You can’t do that at this level,” he said sharply.
“If we were going to lose and make mistakes, better now than later. But moving forward, there’s zero tolerance.”
The Polish forward acknowledged that qualification was deserved over two legs but made it clear that current performances won’t cut it in the semis.
“We’re creating anxiety for ourselves. This isn’t sustainable.”
The Message: Wake-Up Call Before the Storm
Barcelona may be back among Europe’s elite—but inside the locker room, the message is clear: this level won’t be enough.
The semi-final awaits, and the margin for error just disappeared.
Want a fiery headline or post for social media? Or maybe a side-by-side comparison with Madrid’s approach vs Arsenal?
