Xavi spoke about Gerard Pique’s farewell, Araujo’s participation in the World Cup, fans booing players, Ferran’s contributions, and his team’s overall performance against Almeria in his post-match press conference.
Xavi on the win against Almeria:
“Today was one of the most complete matches we’ve played. We understood how to be mature and wait for the goal. We played a very good game. We controlled the rhythm, although we could have scored more.”
“What we experienced today, we must try to repeat it. It won’t be easy, but we played a great match today. This is the way forward.”
Xavi on Pique’s farewell:
“I am very touched. All the experiences we had as teammates go through my head, a golden age through which we won everything. Pique leaves peacefully as I did and I am very happy for him.”
“It was a wonderful night, especially for Pique who deserved this. These are magical nights for players. He is a legend and he deserves it. I’m happy for him, and in addition, he had a great game.”
Xavi on Araujo’s participation in the WC:
“We discussed Araújo’s ability to travel to the World Cup. We spoke with Diego Alonso (Coach of Uruguay) that it might be good for him to accompany the Uruguayan NT in the hope that he may recover as soon as possible.”
Xavi on Pique’s performance:
“It amazed me how calm Piqué was before the match. He knows how to stay focused and play well in big matches, and this was a big match for him.”
“Piqué grows in big games. He plays better in them. He’s always been like that, all throughout his career. Piqué had a great game. It’s a historic night for him. We will miss him. We wanted to say goodbye to Piqué in the best possible way.”
Xavi on Ferran Torres:
“People judge Ferran in front of goal, but I value him because of many other things. He creates spaces and creates chances on his own. He was good tonight.”
Xavi on Pique’s retirement:
“The decision is entirely his. Piqué decided to end his career now.”
Xavi on Pique not taking the Penalty:
“This is not friendly. We have a designated penalty taker and that’s Lewandowski.”
Xavi on fans booing players:
“I urge people not to whistle players at the stadium. It doesn’t help anyone.”
That concluded Xavi’s post-match Press conference.
