Praise from rivals is something Barcelona and other European giants are mainly accustomed to. Given their significant European history and pedigree as acclaimed European giants, it comes as no surprise that opponents tend to give them the respect with which they come to face them.
Most recently, former FC Barcelona player and current head coach of Royal Antwerp, Mark Van Bommel, sized up his Blaugrana opponents and left his press conference having given them high praise both as a rival as well as a force to reckon with indefinitely in the UEFA Champions League.
As highlighted by Spanish outlet SPORT, speaking in the press conference before his Belgian side took on the Catalan giants in their first UEFA Champions League Group Stage game, Van Bommel had much to say regarding his first opponents from Spain.
Xavi’s Philosophy
The 46-year-old talked about the Barca DNA and how Xavi has managed to implement his own ideologies in this Blaugrana team, something he claims was apparent even last season and not just in the recent clash against Real Betis:
“If you watch Barcelona play, you see Xavi’s signature. His style of play is reflected. It wasn’t just against Betis, but last season they already showed what Barcelona is like with Xavi. They are trying.”
Barcelona one of the UCL favorites
Moreover, he even went on to claim that FC Barcelona are one of his favorites to win the entirety of the UEFA Champions League given the quality they possess both in attack and in terms of their youngsters:
“They could win the Champions League because when you talk about the Champions League, you’re talking about Barcelona. They are an excellent team with many young players who dominate their opponents and one of the best-attacking lines in Europe.”
Antwerp’s biggest challenge yet
In terms of his own interpretation of heading into the clash at the Montjuic Stadium, the Royal Antwerp head coach claimed that Barcelona will be the toughest opponent his team has ever faced thus far:
“Barcelona is the toughest opponent we have ever faced. It’s our first match in the Champions League, and Barcelona is on its way to reaching its peak level.”
Interest in Belgian star
Lastly, he even talked about the reported interest of Barcelona towards one of his young gems, Arthur Vermeeren, and stated that his development and decision-making has improved significantly.
“It’s incredible how much he [ Vermeeren ] has improved in a year. Since he started playing, he has been decisive. He’s not only interesting for Barcelona.”
