Monday 11 December 2017 00:47, UK
Ernesto Valverde believes Dani Raba's reaction to his red card proved the Villarreal midfielder deserved to be sent off in Barcelona's 2-0 win on Sunday.
Raba's second-half dismissal proved the turning point in the game as Barca, who were previously struggling to break down their hosts, went on to win 2-0 thanks to Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi goals.
Messi's strike saw him equal Muller's record of 525 goals with a single club in Europe's top five leagues, as Barca extended their lead at the top of La Liga to five points.
Valverde said in his post-match press conference: "The red card happens within the context of the match. I think the player himself has realised that it was disproportionate to tackle like that.
"I have not seen the replay, but I thought it was a strong challenge. The player himself was worried and didn't protest.
"I understand he was going to play the ball but lost control. It was a hard tackle and the referee saw it that way.
"[Villarreal] were very well organised and closed up our corridors of attack. It was a game where we were questioned, and we answered."
Valverde described Messi and Jordi Alba, who enjoyed a productive partnership, as Barca's "life insurance policy".
He added: "Jordi Alba-Messi connections are life insurance for the team. It's one of our weapons and we use it very well.
"They understand each other well in attack, and the arrival of Jordi Alba is so unexpected by the rival that it helps us a lot."
Alba said of Messi's achievements on Barcelona's website: "He [Messi] is the best in history, a very important player for Barca. He deserves it because as a football player and a person he's the best."
