Not Wining The League Was A Good Thing Said Rijkaard

In the wake of Joan Laporta's recent interview in which he decried Real Madrid's title victory last season, Barcelona coach Frank Rijkaard has mused that, perhaps, things have worked out for the best.

The Dutch manager explained that the new outlook of the squad, may not have otherwise come about - but he was less than enthusiastic about Laporta's much-lauded new code of conduct.

Rijkaard said, "I don't think we completely failed. We tied on points with the champions. Yes, it's true that we let slip too many opportunities that would have seen us win.

"But looking back, perhaps it's for the best that we didn't."

He explained, "Now, we'll be able to find the best within ourselves and deliver it."

The coach, then, clearly has an eye on the long-term, and feels that the squad's outlook will become even more win-focused, although he denied that the group was in any way problematic.

Perhaps negating the need for a code of conduct, he said, "I've had great luck with the players. The group has worked plenty well enough during most of my stay here.

"There is always professionalism and desire - there is always a limit, though, as we are all human. Their energy is important."

In a line perhaps intended to placate Laporta, he added, "My task continues to be one of working as hard as I can. We have the squad to be successful: for the club and our supporters it is important that we are always at the top.

"One season you can win three or four trophies, and the next year only one, but you always have to be up there competing and giving your best.

"You have to maintain the philosophy that the board and the technical director want and to always be there competing for titles."

The coach closed by insisting that Real Madrid could be caught - it's only matchday 2, after all - and that he's prepared to face criticism ahead of a long season.

"I've not read too much on the matter, but critics always give you energy.

"There are eleven players in the field and 80,000 managers in the stand. Of course I respect everyone's right to an opinion, but I don't let it affect me.

"I must remain centred in my technical work, and make all the tough decisions. And in that way, I don't pay attention to praise, either," he said.