Xavi opens up on ‘toughest talk of my career’ during Barcelona’s shaky display against Almeria - which saw his side go in level at the break

The Blaugranas laboured to a 3-2 win over Almeria in La Liga after a lacklustre first-half performance which saw them head into the tunnel with the scores locked at 1-1. Dissatisfied with his team's performance, Xavi expressed his concerns about the lack of spirit in his troops which forced him to use some choice words during the team talk at half-time.

Speaking to reporters, Xavi said: "It is very serious that a team that has only won one league does not have a soul, but it will not happen again. It's my responsibility. During the break I had the toughest talk of my career as a coach.

"Did it work? You've already seen it. I liked the second half, unlike the first, and that's why we won. I think the victory is fair."

The Catalan coach's stern words during the break seemed to have a positive impact as Barcelona showcased a significant improvement in the second half as the team rallied to secure a 3-2 victory, thanks to two crucial goals from Sergi Roberto.

"The game went perfectly for us because the first half is what we should not do and the second, what we should do," he said. "If we play like the second half we will always be able to compete for the titles."

Barcelona's leaky defence is a concern for Xavi as they have already shipped in 21 goals in 18 appearances. To put matters into perspective, the reigning champions conceded just 20 in their entire campaign last season.

Xavi will hope that the players will be back rejuvenated after the Christmas break to build on the victory against Almeria. They will return to action against Las Palmas in La Liga away from home on January 5.