Xavi spoke about the game against Ceuta, giving rest to Araujo, the performances of Christensen, Angel Alcaron’s inclusion in the squad, and Raphinha’s exit rumors in his pre-match press conference ahead of the match against Ceuta.
Xavi on the game against Ceuta:
“We are arriving at our best, but we must not forget that our main goal is to win titles.”
Xavi on his previous statement regarding Ceuta:
“It was bad of me to say that we are lucky to face Ceuta. I said it based on the third division, but we know it won’t be an easy game. The cup is one match and it can get complicated. I did not mean any disrespect at all.”
Xavi on giving rest to Ronald Araujo:
“The player who needs the rest the most is Araujo. I just want to rest him. The rest of the squad is available for tomorrow’s game. The list will be released after the training session. Everyone will travel except one or two.”
Xavi on Angel Alcaron’s inclusion in the squad for the match against Ceuta:
“In principle, Angel Alcaron will be called up for tomorrow’s game. But we will decide after training.”
Xavi on the long travel for tomorrow’s game:
“We will go to Malaga, then take a helicopter to Ceuta. The situation will be different but no excuses and we hope the weather will be very good.”
Xavi on Gavi’s continuity:
“Gavi is 100% with us. He is happy and appreciated and we are happy with him.”
Xavi on Eric Garcia:
“In the World Cup, there was a different coach, and he decided not to rely on him. Here the situation is different. He may have suffered from discomfort after the Espanyol game. We depend on him and he will be important.”
“He always benefits us. He has played several good matches with us. For me, he is a guarantee at the back and I have confidence in him and he is an important player.”
Xavi on Raphinha being linked to Arsenal:
“I try to be clear with the players. For me, no one should leave. I’m happy with the team. I don’t want anyone to leave, and the other thing is that no one has asked to leave yet.”
Xavi on Christensen:
“Christensen is reliable at the back. Excellent with the ball, great personality, understands the game, wins duels. That’s why we signed him. He’s composed, talented, fast, aggressive, and excellent in 1v1 situations. We signed him because we know he can make a difference.”
Xavi on HectorBellerín:
“You have to give him confidence. Hector will participate and will continue to be an important player. There is strong competition. You always ask me about the players who do not play, there are 24 players, and only 11 can be used in addition to five substitutes.”
Xavi on Busquets:
“Busquets and the new system? The idea is to create a numerical superiority and find the free man. If there are too much empty spaces, it harms everyone, but most of all Busquets.”
Xavi on Frenkie de Jong:
“He feels more comfortable and we give him a little more freedom now. He is a player I really like and has exceptional potential to be one of the best midfielders in the world. He is at an excellent level.”
