Igor Korneev on Barcelona’s Title Chances After Girona Loss

February 17, 2026, 08:45 Moscow time

Former head coach of the Russian national team, Igor Korneev, has offered his perspective on Barcelona’s La Liga title race following their 2-1 defeat to Girona on February 16, 2026. Korneev believes it is premature to suggest Barcelona has lost its championship aspirations.

“This is not a key match yet. Real Madrid itself ‘floats’,” Korneev stated on the “Everyone for the Match!” program on Match TV. “Yes, their leaders play with inspiration. Vinicius sparkles. But I don’t consider that Barcelona lost the title in the match with Girona.”

The result of the match sees Barcelona, with 58 points, fall to second place in the La Liga standings, two points behind league leaders Real Madrid.

Igor Korneev’s Background

Igor Vladimirovich Korneev, born September 4, 1967, is a Russian professional football official and former player. He played primarily as a midfielder, with notable stints in La Liga for RCD Espanyol and FC Barcelona [1]. He was part of the Feyenoord squad that won the 2001–02 UEFA Cup, whereas he remained an unused substitute in the final [1]. Korneev also represented the Soviet Union, CIS, and Russia at the international level, earning 14 caps and scoring 3 goals [1].

Recent La Liga Standings

As of February 17, 2026, the La Liga standings are as follows:

• Real Madrid: 60 points
• Barcelona: 58 points

The La Liga title race remains competitive, with several teams still in contention. Further matches will be crucial in determining the eventual champion.