The Spaniard was visibly angry with referee Istvan Kovacs, expressing his frustration after Uruguayan centre-back Ronald Araujo was sent off in the first half. His displeasure grew when Barcelona were denied a penalty soon after the break. Following the match, he admitted to telling the match official that his performance was “a disaster”. However, Xavi’s disagreement wasn’t limited to the referee, as he also expressed dissent with other individuals during the match.
PSG manager Luis Enrique remarked after the match that his side would have progressed to the next round even without Araujo’s sending off. He also expressed his desire for his former colleague and player, whom he coached at Barcelona, to stay at the club for “many years to come”. In response to these statements, Xavi, when asked about his ex-teammate and mentor’s remarks, replied: “I say no to both.” Additionally, another member of Barcelona’s coaching staff was sent off during the intense encounter in Spain.