Leeds [UK]: Barcelona manager Quique Setien believes that football loses its essence when playing in front of empty stands.
La Liga returned to action after a long break caused by the coronavirus pandemic. However, the competition resumed behind closed doors due to concerns regarding the spread of the deadly virus.
"We would rather play with the support of our fans tomorrow but we know it's not possible and we have to adapt. Football loses its essence playing in front of empty stands," a website quoted Setien as saying.
Lionel Messi scored one and set up two more goals as Barcelona made a winning comeback in the league by securing a commanding 4-0 win over Mallorca. La Liga leaders will now host Leganes in their next match on June 17.
Setien hoped that Barcelona does not lose any "intimidation factor" due to the absence of fans.
"I hope we don't lose any intimidation factor because we don't have our fans. The public factor would help us a lot, I hope it doesn't hurt us too much now we won't have them with us," he said.
Interestingly, in an attempt to recreate the atmosphere of matches, the TV feed for international viewers had digital “fans” superimposed on the vacant stands and recorded cheers similar to those used in video games. Spanish TV audiences can choose to watch the direct feed or the one with visual and sound effects.
