Just Barcelona News

Tito Vilanova was back in charge of Barcelona for the Catalan derby against Espanyol, and it could hardly have gone better for him. With Barcelona 4-0 ahead by half time, Espanyol must have been fearing a cricket score, but Barca lost some of their urgency, understandably, and that remained the score until the end.

Pedro was unlucky not to get a hat-trick, having seen two perfectly good goals chalked off for offside. Pedro will be happy, though, as he was desperate to add to his tally of just one goal in the Primera liga this season. His performances have deserved more, and a bit of luck with a slight deflection from Messi’s shot settled his nerves. His second was taken with a striker’s skill and confidence, as were the two that were disallowed.   .....Read more here.......

There must be something in the air at the Barcelona training ground or stadium, because the speed of recovery of the players and staff is remarkable. The latest little miracle has been performed by the manager Tito Vilanova. The 44-year old had surgery for his Parotid gland cancer less than a month ago, but he will be sitting in the dugout today as Barcelona fave city rivals Espanyol at the Nou Camp.

Vilanova has already been back at the training ground talking to the players and going through some sessions, although his assistant, Jordi Roura, has been dealing with the media. Vilanova does not want to overshadow the players and detract from the fact that this is a football match that Barca want to win.   .....Read more here.......