Xavi spoke about the game against Celta, Ronald Araujo’s return, Felix’s performances, his renewal, Vitor Roque’s injury, the continuity of Felix and Cancelo, competition on the right wing, rotation and much more during his pre-match press conference ahead of Barcelona vs Celta Vigo.
Xavi on the game against Celta Vigo:
“For us, it’s a very important match. It’s not Camp Nou, but the atmosphere being generated is very harmonious. We come in good form. We will face a Celta team that has fewer points than they deserve. Benítez is a very experienced coach. It was difficult for us last year, and we hope to achieve victory, feeling good at home.”
Xavi on his renewal:
“The renewal has been done for days, and it will be announced shortly. It continues to be excellent. I’m happy, and it will be announced soon.”
Xavi on the improvement in his squad:
“We have improved the level of players. Having Gündogan or Cancelo is an advantage, and the players we already had last year have improved. Daily work is bearing fruit, and the improvement in the squad is evident.”
Xavi on the confirmation of his renewal:
“Yes, yes. We’ll inform you, but it’s done.”
Xavi on Joao Felix:
“He associates very well, and he can be another midfielder between the lines. It benefits not only Robert but also the entire team. Ori, Gavi, and Gündogan are also providing assists. We have high-level players, and it’s good for competition.”
Xavi on this season’s objectives:
“I won’t win anything by saying it’s going to be a good season. We have to take it step by step and not get carried away. The main objective is to maintain the level of play and results.”
Xavi on his game plan against Celta Vigo:
“The most important thing is to open up the field and have alternatives. We need to exploit the spaces to overcome their five-man defense but also attack from the inside. We need variations to unsettle their defensive structure.”
Xavi on Vitor Roque’s injury:
“The doctors are in contact. They have informed Dr. Pruna. We’ll see, and hopefully, it’s nothing significant. Bojan will begin the task of following up on loaned, signed, or buy-back players. We are keeping track.”
Xavi on the future of Joaos:
“It’s early. We’ll see; this takes many turns. We are delighted with Joao Félix. He’s happy and enjoying himself. I see Cancelo in the same situation. Hopefully, both continue on this path.”
Xavi on his continuity at Barca:
“This is Barça, and there’s tremendous demand. There have been moments when I didn’t have a good time. I hope I can stay here for many years. It would be a very difficult task to stay for 15 years.”
Xavi on his best moment as a Barca coach:
“I’ll go with the Spanish Super Cup in January. It was a turning point. The players saw it and began to believe. It was the key moment to turn things around.”
Xavi on the continuity of Joao Felix:
“We are talking about long-term hypotheses. It’s a long time, and these are circumstances we will evaluate. It’s too early, and right now, it’s unthinkable to decide anything.”
Xavi on the rotations in the frontline:
“It depends on the circumstances. Some players have had a lot of minutes. There will always be two rotations per match. We need the best level from everyone, and there will be rotations.”
Xavi on improvement in set pieces:
“Sergio Alegre is in charge of set pieces. Last year, we were excellent in defense, and this year we are improving. Joao Félix and Gündogan deliver them very well, and we have improved a lot compared to the previous year.”
Xavi on Christensen:
“He had some discomfort, and we protected him. He is fine and is a very important player for me.”
Xavi on Ronald Araujo:
“Ronald is an immensely important figure, vital even. He is a leader and a spectacular corrector. He will gradually come back. He is happy, and his spirit is crucial for the team.”
Xavi on the competition at the right position:
“It’s a blessed problem. I am delighted with these players. Lamine, Rafa, and Ferran… There is a significant physical demand that requires tremendous intensity, which is why there are many changes. We need fresh players.”
Xavi on Joao Felix’s performances:
“We have seen an excellent Joao Félix. He has always had the talent. He is supportive of the group and makes a difference. He is full of happiness. He is helping us wonderfully. Hopefully, he will score more goals and provide more assists, but he won’t stop working as he is now.”
Xavi on Pedri’s recovery:
“Pedri is with the rehabilitation team. He is doing well and is putting in a tremendous effort in his recovery. His feelings will determine his progress. We want him to feel 100% good.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
