Xavi rates Ilias and Abde performances in Espanyol game

Ilias Akhomach was handed his Barcelona debut against Espanyol. Ez Abde made his third appearance for the Catalans, replacing Ilias at the break.

Both put in good performances, keeping the visitors' defenders on their toes, often making promising runs and creating chances for themselves and their teammates.

And Xavi is happy with the youngsters.

"Ilias and Abde have played a great game, they are talents and it is important to have this generation of footballers," he said.

"They will help us a lot."

Barca defeated their city rivals 1-0. Memphis scored the only goal from the spot shortly after the break.