Xavi spoke about his team’s overall performance, the reason behind his halftime substitution of Christensen and Balde, the fitness level of Araujo and Frenkie, Raphinha’s reaction after being substituted, and Ter Stagen’s match-winning performance in his post-match press conference after the 1-0 win against Getafe.
Xavi on the overall performance against Getafe:
“We didn’t have a good game. We kept a clean sheet, but we could have done much better. We need to minimize our poor matches like these ones. We were very slow. We need to improve but we have alternatives. Having alternatives to win when you’re not playing well is also important.”
Xavi on Raphinha’s reaction after being substituted:
“Raphinha is being decisive for us. Today he assisted the goal, the other day he scores it. If he gets angry because of the substitution it’s normal.”
Xavi on being too slow in the build-up:
“The players were too slow in the last pass. We missed the ‘timing’ on when we have to stop and move. The good things against Ceuta disappeared today. We have to improve our management of spaces in the attack.”
Xavi on Ter Stagen:
“Ter Stegen is a leader. He works so hard for the team, and it’s so important to have a goalkeeper that can win you matches as he does. We’re witnessing the best Ter Stegen in a long time. I’m happy for him because I’ve always supported him.”
Xavi on substituting Christensen at halftime:
“Christensen was replaced as he had some discomfort. I think Christensen will be ready for the next match.”
Xavi on substituting Balde at halftime:
“Balde is fine. The substitution was strictly tactical. Balde was good, but we brought in Alba as a tactical change. We needed him to support the midfield.”
Xavi on the fitness level of Araujo and Frenkie:
“Araujo and Frenkie could have played, but they were not at 100%. We preferred to rest them. In principle, everyone should be ready for the Copa match on Wednesday.”
Xavi on Ansu Fati’s performance:
“Ansu did his job well, especially in defence. We’ve been slow in general, but Ansu was good. Ansu Fati had a good game. He couldn’t get too many chances because Getafe defended with all of their men in the box.”
Xavi on the Getafe’s game plan:
“It was irritating to see that Getafe would not play a higher line, despite them losing the match. Our ball circulation was poor and we were slow in general. The truth is that Getafe were out of the match for the most part. They caught us in counter-attacks a few times, but almost no real danger.”
Xavi on the mental fatigue of players:
“We need to play better at home. I think the mental fatigue is noticeable. This is an important victory, but we didn’t do well at all.”
