Barcelona and Xavi prepare themselves for the fast-approaching El Clasico where they take on Real Madrid. With the clash against Shakhtar Donetsk in the UEFA Champions League now behind them, the Catalan giants can turn their attention back towards La Liga.
However, both Barcelona and Real Madrid come into this game in fine form. For La Blaugrana, the last 5 appearances have produced 4 wins and one draw. Los Blancos, similarly, have the exact same record in their last five outings.
Injury and fatigue
Prior to the match, Xavi Hernandez was questioned about the game itself. Referring to his players and the available squad, as highlighted by SPORT, Xavi stated that he maintains confidence in their fitness and condition heading into the game:
“They arrive at a hundred percent for the Clásico. There have been no injuries, only minor knocks, and fatigue.”
He further stated that the game against Athletic Bilbao was a rather exhausting affair. However, he claimed that the players that have managed to pull through are still raring to go:
“There are players with a heavy physical load because Athletic Club demanded a lot from us, but the ones who are fit are strong.”
Recovering key players
Xavi was then asked about the injury crisis at Barcelona. Given varying reports have come out regarding who will make it to El Clasico, Xavi made his perspective quite clear:
“It would be important for morale, but we won’t force anyone. The injured players want to play because it’s a Clásico, and they’re doing everything they can to be ready for Saturday. However, it’s just one match, and those who play have to be at a hundred percent.”
Gameplan for Real Madrid
Speaking about how he hopes to proceed against Real Madrid, Xavi maintains that Barcelona will need to dominate. However, he also pointed out that the Catalan giants will need to remain mindful of Los Blancos at every point:
“We aim to control the game with the ball, and on Saturday, it’s crucial not to lose possession and be well positioned because Madrid can tear you apart.”
Avoiding controversy
While he did his best to avoid controversial topics, Xavi was not too happy with the reporters for trying to create tension leading to the game. As a result, the Barcelona coach clarified that he continues to believe that the Classic should be played with positivity around it and he would not give in to making controversial remarks:
“By asking me that, that’s how a tense atmosphere is created. If he deleted the tweet, I don’t need to say anything. I don’t like anything that generates tension. Neither this tweet nor trying to influence the referees. A Clásico should be played with respect and public admiration. We have experienced Clásicos with a lot of tension, and I won’t be the one to generate it.”
In-form stars
Fermin Lopez, who was the man of the moment against Shakhtar, also invited praise from the Blaugrana coach:
“I am delighted with him. His attitude is spectacular. He wants to learn and be important. He’s a player we really like. I said that if he believes in himself, he can stay at Barça for many years, and that’s a big statement. He’s dynamic, has two strong legs, and can shoot from outside the area. He will continue to be important for the team.”
Similarly, yet another great performance by Inigo Martinez also managed to do the same. He continued his fine form since the Bilbao game, and Xavi made sure to praise his participation:
“He gives us leadership and character. He’s proactive and provides key passes like the one today. He’s a very influential player in his position and he’s going to contribute a lot to us. He’s in good physical shape, a positive guy. He’s a great signing.”
With just a few days left to the 28th of October, Barcelona will await Real Madrid at the Montjuic Stadium. La Liga remains as close as ever, with possibly only a point spectating the top four teams if Atletico Madrid wins their game in hand. For Barcelona, winning the El Clasico would be a major boost not just in terms of points but also in terms of morale.
