Barcelona star apologises for poor performance

BARCELONA, SPAIN - JANUARY 06: Arda Turan of FC Barcelona looks on during the Copa del Rey Round of 16 first leg match between FC Barcelona and RCD Espanyol at Camp Nou on January 6, 2016 in Barcelona, Spain. (Photo by David Ramos/Getty Images)

Barcelona’s star midfielder Arda Turan has apologised for his disappointing performance against Croatia in Turkey’s opening game in Group D.

Turkey suffered a 1-0 defeat at the hands of Croatia and take on Spain in their next fixture.

“I didn’t play well today, but my team-mates fought well. I apologise to the Turkish people,” Arda told reporters after the game.

“Croatia have a good team. We did everything we could and we could have grabbed a draw, but we leave with our heads up.

“We can still get out of the group and achieve something important.”

Sunday’s performance comes after a tough season for the 29-year-old. Turan joined Barcelona last summer knowing he’d not be able to play competitive football until January 2016 due to a transfer ban imposed by UEFA.

The Turkey international has struggled for form with the La Liga since his debut and has been linked with a move away from the club.

Turan made his debut in January and made 25 appearances in total scoring twice, providing four assists and winning the league title for the second time – as well as the Spanish Cup.

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