Andrés Iniesta: A final is a final and it is always difficult

FC Barcelona captain Andrés Iniesta spoke of his pride at winning the Copa del Rey for the third season in a row.

The midfield maestro was pleased with the win and highlighted the difficulty of playing a game of such a nature.

“A final is a final and it is always difficult. Even though we were favourites, these games are always tough. We are happy because we reached the aim of ending the season with the Copa,” said Iniesta.

On the season as a whole, the skipper said: “We are required to play well, but also to get results. We didn’t do great in the other competitions and we were punished”.

Nevertheless, he did speak of the value of the cup: “It is our third Copa del Rey in a row, and that must be valued”.

And finally, on the outgoing manager Luis Enrique, Iniesta said: “He arrived at a delicate time and his record has been more than positive”.

Here is what some of the other players said after Saturday’s triumph:

Paco Alcácer:

• “In the end, the hard work was reflected on the pitch. Helping the team with a goal is important. I am very happy. We have to keep working.”

• “I’ve gone from down to up during the season. I always try to think in the present and on the next game and, in the end, it has its rewards. You can never give up, you must always give your all.”

• “There is no better player that Leo Messi. I am very proud to be able to live beside him. It’s amazing the ease with which he plays. He makes football so easy. There is no doubt that he is the best player in the world.”

Aleix Vidal:

• “It was a serious injury, but hard work each day has allowed me to enjoy some minutes today, facing the same team and referee I got injured against.”

• “The doctors estimated a recovery time of five months and I've been fortunate to have recovered in less time. I worked hard and tried to take care of myself every day.”

• “I went through difficult times during the season and just when the situation had changed and the manager gave me confidence I was unfortunate to suffer that injury.”

• “When someone works hard, they believe only good things will happen. During the vacation period I will continue working and I hope to convince the new manager that I am a valuable player. I have shown that situations can change.”