Van Bronckhorst: Watching the Match Shows Barcelona Are the Best Team in the World Right Now

Feyenoord manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst said Barcelona are currently the best team in the world after Feyenoord lost 1-5 to Barcelona in their opening Champions League match.

Van Bronckhorst did not make excuses for the defeat and did not avoid discussing the heavy loss. At the post-match press conference, he said: “If you watch the way they play, you will understand that Barcelona are the best team in the world right now.”

Van Bronckhorst said Feyenoord did not intend to only defend, but Barcelona's early goal changed everything. He said: “We also had chances and tried to score, but against such a high-quality team, mistakes come with a heavy cost.” He also said: “We still have many areas to improve. Although the gap between the two sides was large, we can learn a lot from our opponents.”

Van Bronckhorst believes Barcelona have the ability to win this season's Champions League. The match had special meaning for him because he previously played for Barcelona. He said: “At the time, I was focused on the match, and I recognized a few people and greeted them. I have many great memories at this club.”

Van Bronckhorst also thanked Flick. He said: “Flick said he appreciated us, saying that we pressed aggressively and were not only focused on defending. That was really kind.”

Speaking about Yamal, Van Bronckhorst said: “At such a young age, he has already achieved many things. The fans all love him. He has the ability to win the Ballon d'Or, and I see him like Messi and Ronaldinho.”