Iniesta: Barcelona desperate to pip Real Madrid to league title

Iniesta: Barcelona desperate to regain Liga crown

8 Aug 2012 08:20:00

The Catalans were made to settle for second spot in the table last season, but the Spain midfielder is eager to set the record straight in the 2012-13 campaign

Andres Iniesta has made it clear that Barcelona are determined to regain their Liga crown in the upcoming season after being pipped to the title by Real Madrid last term.

The Spain international has admitted that Los Blancos are now the team to beat, but added that the Blaugrana are only more motivated to set things right following their second spot in the table in 2011-12.

"We will try to beat the champions. Trying to beat Real Madrid to win the league again is a real incentive," Iniesta stated at a press conference.

"It gives us extra motivation. Now it's our turn to try and wrestle the title away from them."

The attacking midfielder then looked ahead to the upcoming Spanish Supercopa against Madrid, and stressed the outcome of the tie will not have any influence on the Liga season.

"It is important for us because it is the first title, against the current league champions. But the Supercopa will not affect the season.

"Obviously the aim is to win it, to do as well as possible. It is part of our preparations over these two months. The winner will gain morale and confidence compared to the loser, but it is just the start."

The first leg of the Supercopa takes place at Camp Nou on August 23.