Xavi Hernandez believes that Barcelona have taken the pressure of following last season's treble success in their stride.
Some critics hoped Barca would struggle to live up to expectations after winning last season's UEFA Champions League and the domestic double.
But midfielder Xavi reckons the Spanish giants have not only maintained that momentum but made an even more impressive start than last term.
Coach Pep Guardiola has steered the Blaugrana to five wins from five in the Primera Liga and to the top of their Champions League group.
"I hope that any doubts have been removed," Xavi told Sport.
"If we compare last season with this, it is clear to see that they are very similar, but dare I even say that we have started even better this year.
"There have been mistakes, but nobody has questioned anything.
"As for everything else, we have the same system and the same football philosophy.
"I never tire of hearing compliments about the team because they are a lot better than criticism."
Spying rowSome of the spotlight has been taken away from Barca's impressive start by the revelation that the club's hierarchy had put their vice-presidents under surveillance.
But Xavi insists that the players are not concerned by speculation over the future of club president Joan Laporta.
"I know what is being said but I can say that the team is not distracted by any of that," he added.
"We will remain outside all the talk of elections and spying.
"We are paid to play football and that is our role. The rest of the things are not an excuse for whether we win or not."
Barca display brilliance in SeattleXavi longs for Cesc return
