Barcelona utterly disappointing

Barcelona's soccer team pose for a team photograph during a friendly soccer match between Barcelona and Malaysia XI at the Shah Alam stadium near Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 10 August 2013. EPA/AHMAD YUSNI

THEY were whisked away from the airport through an exit that deprived fans gathered outside from even catching a glimpse of their football idols.

At the One World Hotel, where more fans had gathered, many enduring a five-hour wait and skipping lunch so as to meet the team, the players were ringed by “musclemen” dressed in black who prevented any handshakes or signing of autographs.