Suarez says Barcelona is suffering from a "lack of communication"

The recent indifferent form of Barcelona can be explained by a lack of communication between the players, according to Luis Suarez.

The men of Ernesto Valverde continue to position themselves well at the top of the La Liga, enjoying a six-point lead over Real Madrid, while also continuing in the Copa del Rey and the Champions League.

But three draws in eight days, against Valencia and Athletic in the league, and Madrid in the semifinals of the Copa, have raised doubts in the dressing room of Camp Nou.

And after stalemating 0-0 on Sunday at San Mames, Suarez revealed that he and his teammates needed to talk more to get in shape.

"There was a lack of communication in the first half," said the Uruguayan striker.

"It's something we have to improve, we've lost bullets, we have not spoken, we have to ask for more ball, it's the little details. [that count].

"We are on the back of a series of matches and it may have been an advantage for [Athletic].

"They were better rested for the game, but we created chances, both teams had chances, I do not know if a draw is fair, both teams have done enough to win."

Marc Andre ter Stegen, Barca goalkeeper, said the list of packed matches could have had a negative impact on the Catalans.

"Maybe there is an element of fatigue because of the schedule," Ter Stegen said.

"February is a busy month and I think everyone is happy that we can now rest for one or two days.

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"After this little break, we will be able to come back and see what's wrong and where we can improve."

Barcelona will be spared by the activity of the Champions League next week. The next match will take place on February 16, at the Valladolid welcome to Camp Nou.

Valverde's men will then resume their European service the following Tuesday in Lyon, before traveling to Seville before consecutive meetings with Madrid in the return match of Copa and La Liga.