Barcelona boss Ernesto Valverde says he will not make the Champions League their priority over retaining the La Liga title this season.

The Catalan giants have won the league in seven out of the last 10 season but have struggled in Europe, advancing to only one final since 2011.

Valverde’s side suffered defeat to Roma in the quarter-finals of the Champions League last season, after taking a commanding 4-1 lead in the first leg.

Real Madrid went on to clinch a third straight title but Valverde insists his focus will not switch from domestic to European matters this season.

“We prioritise everything, we will always fight for the Champions League,” Valverde said ahead of their La Liga opener against Deportivo Alaves on Saturday.

“Barca will always be like that, we are very excited but the way to win the Champions League is to win the league. You focus on being better for a year, and if so, you are closer to winning the Champions League.”