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Strategist Frank Rijkaard spared no praise for the team after they won the Spanish champions title for the second season in a row without much difficulty.
After an unsuccessful first season in 2003/2004, it seemed that the 43-year-old Dutch strategist would not be able to hold onto his position. Nevertheless, becoming the Spanish champion the following year and this year, leading the team to the UEFA Champions League final on May 17 against London, F. Rijkaard proved that he is capable of working with a top-level club. The former legendary player now insists that the main goal for this season has already been achieved.
"Before the start of this season, the main task of the team was to defend the Spanish champions title, and we managed to do so," said F. Rijkaard after the victory against Celta de Vigo. "The second title only confirms the team's abilities.
"It is said that staying at the top is harder than getting there for the first time. Therefore, this victory becomes even more important. Now, before continuing our work, we will enjoy this achievement a little bit."
The best footballer on earth, Ronaldinho, also praised the coach, saying: "This is great. It's time to enjoy this moment and celebrate. I will celebrate as much as I can in the next few days."
"It was great to score the winning goal in the decisive match, but even better to be crowned champions," rejoiced Cameroonian Samuel Eto'o. "Coaches and players have done a great job over the past three years, and footballers who, like me, came to the club two seasons ago, have become a powerful and united team."
Meanwhile, the club's sports director Txiki Begiristain stated that this victory could mark the beginning of a new era for the club: "Winning the champions title twice in a row clearly shows that the team is developing and shaping up perfectly. This could be a sign of a new era.
"If we also win the Champions League trophy, we will become a true dream team.
This is how the legendary "Barcelona" team, led by Johan Cruyff, was known, having won four consecutive Spanish champions titles in the 1990s and triumphing in the Champions League competitions.
