Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez feels his players have been affected by the negative press surrounding the team in recent weeks.
The Catalans managed a 2-1 win over Alaves on Sunday in La Liga but had to come from behind after a really poor first half.
Barca’s performance follows on from defeats to Shakhtar and Real Madrid and a late win against Real Sociedad after another uninspiring 90 minutes.
Xavi said afterwards he has no doubts that the players have been affected by what is being written about them in the press.
“I have zero doubts that the criticism from the press is affecting the team.