Barcelona coach sounded happy to go back to the top of La Liga after Barcelona secured a 1-0 win over Athletic Club in La Liga.
Rakitic came off the bench to score the winner in a cagey match and Setien was happy with the Croatian midfielder’s contribution.
“He came in in the second half for the Busi [Sergio Busquets] card. He has done it frankly well,” he told Movistar.
“He understands football very well. He has placed himself well, has stolen balls, and has joined a definitive action.
“I am very happy for him.”
Setien was also full of praise for youngsters Puig and Fati who came off the bench and made a difference with their dynamism.
“In the first half we were not precise with the ball. We had losses, it was difficult for us to recover the ball after loss,” he said.
“I have seen the second half calmer. The entrance of Ansu and Riqui has given us dynamism … they have given us a longer possession.
“I am happy with the second half. And the first half we can improve.”
Barcelona have reinstalled a 3 point lead at the top. However, Real Madrid do have a game in hand and Zidane’s men will go back to the top if they win as they are ahead on head to head.
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