Xavi has spoken to the press at the pre-match press conference ahead of FC Barcelona’s league match against Elche CF.
He has been asked about several transfer rumors, injury updates, and new signings. He has shared his thoughts. Below are some important bits from his press conference.
Xavi on tomorrow’s match
“It’s a difficult game because Elche are in a comfortable situation and with Francisco, they have improved and haven’t lost at home since his arrival. They made it very difficult for us at Camp Nou. They are a very intense team and they can hurt us.”
Xavi on if he met with Erling Haaland
“I can’t give details. We work on the present and future of the club. When things can be announced, we will announce it, as today with Pablo Torre, who is an excellent signing.”
Xavi on Piqué’s future and the possible arrival of Andreas Christensen.
“I think that the feeling is that we’re not supposed to be talking about this right now. I know the fans are excited but let’s talk about the present. We want to get to the third spot, Europa League, I don’t think it’s time to talk about this.”
“We are on a good run, we have Elche next, that’s what we are worried about right now. I understand the interest but all I can say is we’re working towards the future. I can only say that I am delighted with him; his performance has been extraordinary for the team.”
Xavi on Pablo Torre
“We have followed him. He is a natural talent, he can play both as an interior midfielder and as a winger, he can play with both legs, has a great passing ability, and is great at set-pieces. He is a signing for the present and the future.”
Xavi on Barca’s current situation
“If you have watched our previous games, we have been better than our opponents, but we have to prove it in each game. We are not in a comfortable situation although the feelings are good. Tomorrow is a tough test.”
Xavi on him comparing Pedri with Iniesta
“When I see Pedri play, he reminds me of Iniesta. I’m not going to think otherwise no matter how much criticism there is. Surely, we have to bridge the gap because of Iniesta’s career, who is the greatest talent I have seen in Spanish football, but I am not afraid for Pedri.”
Xavi on Dani Alves’ possible continuity next season
“We haven’t spoken to Alves but from what he is giving to the team in every way, he is an example and hopefully, we can decide that he continues at the end of the season. He is giving us a lot and I would like him to continue next season because he can give us a lot.”
Xavi on the possibility of Mbappe and Haaland playing in La Liga
“Mbappe and Haaland are two great footballers. It would be great to have them in La Liga, the league and the clubs they go to will get better. They will bring more fans to the stadium and it will be surely positive.”
Xavi on Riqui Puig
“He has a lot of competition, fierce competition, and I feel bad not giving him more minutes. He trains very well, I’m happy with him, he’s improving but the pity is that there is a lot of competition in midfield with Pedri, Nico, Gavi, and Frenkie.”
