Brazilian full-back Adriano appeared before the cameras of Barca TV late this week and the first port of call was to give his thoughts on the unbeaten start to the season.
"We're pleased and happy with the start of the season, but we know that there's still a lot to do and we have to improve. There are games in which we've had the lead, teams have pulled back and levelled, then we've had to come back again. We have to have patience and to know how to control the games, which lately, we've improved upon a lot."
Whilst aware of the demands and expectations of objectives towards the end of the season, at the moment, Adriano simply feels it's best to take things one step at a time, rather than look too far ahead.
"It's very important to get to Christmas doing what we've been doing up to now. On from that, we'll rest, then get back to the same level and carry on next year. We know it's important for us to take each game as it comes and the next on is against Osasuna."
El Clásico is fast approaching and Adriano insists that the ream are keen to confront their arch-rivals Real Madrid, with more intensity and purpose.
"There's no doubts, this year we want it to be different. We know that the team will be going into it physically better, with clearer ideas and with more enthusiasm."
Asked for his thoughts on Tata Martino as manager, Adriano highlighted that the Argentine coach is trying to improve the pressing game more, ensuring that on those rare occasions Barcelona don't have control of the ball, they can win it back quickly. This he believes, will offer more of an edge to the team, as they look to conquer in all competitions.
"He's putting the belief back into us, the desire to pressure again, steal the ball off opponents, is a very important point. Perhaps this year we've touched on this aspect more, in order to believe that we can once again win the Champions League and the treble, which is what we want this season."
Martino is also rotating the squad regularly, but according to Adriano, everyone in the squad accepts what the intentions of the manager are and they're happy to work this way.
"This team is very good. We all want to play in the games, but we're seeing things differently now and that's for the good of the team and ourselves."
Adriano also spoke about how well Neymar is settling into life at the club, suggesting that the young Brazilian star is adapting naturally and comfortable with the structure of things at the club.
"Those of us who know him, knew he would settle and in his own way: He's straightforward and humble. He's fallen in well amongst everyone in the group. We're at ease with him and little by little we've noticed that he's becoming more liberated out on the pitch. He knew how to take things here, there are hierarchies in the team and he respects all of that. Out on the pitch, he does what he knows how to do best."
Carles Puyol edges ever closer to his return and that, enthused Adriano, is something that everyone at the club is looking forward to.
"He's excited about coming back to play and hopefully, we'll get to see him playing again. He's an example for everyone in the team, for his way of being, for who he and for all the players coming up through the ranks. He's a great example for young players and for us and we hope we can see Puyi in action for many more years."
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