Xavi spoke about his message to the team, Real Madrid being the favorite, Ferran Torres, Ansu Fati’s condition, the absence of Pedri, Vinicius Jr., Estanis Pedrola, and playing at Bernabéu in his pre-match press conference ahead of Barcelona vs Real Madrid.
Xavi on the game against Real Madrid:
“We will approach this match in the same way as we normally do against Madrid, they are tough opponents, who in many moments don’t dominate but they have those mini phases in which they dominate the opposition.”
Xavi on the pressure of playing at Bernabéu:
“I don’t go under pressure, I go with enthusiasm and desire, it always motivates me to go to the Bernabéu, I like this healthy football rivalry, I like to go there and try to be dominant, it motivates me more than other games”
Xavi on Real Madrid being favorites:
“I think Real Madrid are the favorite. They are the league champions and also the last winner of the Champions League. Despite the Super Copa, I think Real Madrid are the favorite.”
Xavi on Ferran Torres:
“I am one of those to blame for Ferran Torres being in this situation. I have full confidence in him wherever he plays, against Cadiz he was one of the best and he needed it. We give him confidence.”
Xavi on the absence of Pedri:
“Pedri makes differences with goals and passes and gives us that pause that we need in the middle. It is a very sensitive loss for us.”
Xavi on his message to the team:
“We have to be more of a team than ever, both in defense and attack or in strategy. In these games, the small details matter and we have to be brave because we have a great personality.”
Xavi on Ansu Fati recovery:
“Today Ansu has returned to training with the group and it is great news that it was only a bruise. I see him very content, happy, and motivated.”
Xavi on the first leg of the Copa Del Rey Semi-Final:
“I think the game against Madrid will be decided at Camp Nou. This is a golden opportunity to win the trophy.”
Xavi on Vinicius Jr:
“Vinicius makes the difference. He is an exceptional player and he scores goals. He is a player to be seen, he is at a very high level.”
Xavi on Estanis Pedrola:
“He is a strong, fast player, who can score goals. He’s a good one-on-one player. We already knew him from last year. Without Lewandowski, he will be available for tomorrow’s match.”
