Ernesto Valverde's postgame reactions following El Clásico win

Ernesto Valverde spoke to the media in the press room of the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu on Saturday, shortly after FC Barcelona beat Real Madrid, 3–0, to take a commanding 14-point lead over them in the La Liga standings. Here are the highlights of what he had to say:

On the game:

“We figured out how to beat Real Madrid’s pressure in our end. The game was wide open, and neither team clearly dominated play. And we persevered until later on when we took control of the match…to win El Clásico.”

On the role of goalkeeper Marc-André ter Stegen:

“He’s fundamental for us. He’s the first one with the ball as we move out of our end and his clarity and tranquility help us a lot. Sometimes we get nervous, but he’s very relaxed back there.”

On whether the La Liga title is sewn up:

“The first half of the season isn’t even over yet. We’re ahead of our rivals, but we’re not focused on that. We want to win our games and avoid losing any.”

On defender Thomas Vermaelen:

“He trains very hard, he’s good with the ball, he battles for loose balls, he’s a tough central defender, he’s strong, fast, and nobody has any doubts about him. He’s an example of what it means to be a great player.”

On the role of the midfielder, Paulinho:

“He’s great at getting into the final third, he’s very involved in our play, and he’s surprising on attack. He works very hard and although he doesn’t play positionally because of where he’s played before coming here, he gives us a lot out on the field.”