Xavi spoke about Gavi’s incredible performance, the Champions League, the first 15 minutes of the match, transitional play, Dembele’s difference-making, and the contributions of Lewandowski and Raphinha in his post-match press conference.
Xavi on the opening 15 minutes of the game:
“We didn’t start well in the first 15 minutes, but as soon as we settled in, we dominated the game and had chances to score more goals. This victory is a good sign, we’re in a good moment.”
“Sevilla are a dangerous team. They showed that in the first 10/15 minutes. We could not control the match at the beginning. It’s hard to win at this stadium. We didn’t expect the 4-4-2 in a diamond that they proposed, but Sergio, Pedri, and Gavi have been very good, they have worked hard and the wingers have been very supportive.”
Xavi on Gavi’s performance:
“The intensity that Gavi plays with is amazing. I hope he continues at this level. Gavi does not surprise me, I follow him every day in training. I don’t want to be unfair to the rest, but maybe he was the best in the match.”
Xavi on Dembele:
“Dembélé is a player that I like a lot, with a good attitude, but who also works in defense and is supportive, like Raphinha and Robert, who are also helping a lot. We have players to make a difference and Ousmane is one of them.”
Xavi on the overall performance against Sevilla:
“We played a very good match, we possessed and had chances to improve the result. Winning at a complex ground is a positive sign. We have to continue to be humble. We’re on the right track, but we have to improve.”
Xavi on taking the advantage of transitions:
“We love the positional game, but we have players to take advantage of the quick transition as well, so I also ask to take advantage of those opportunities that the game gives you. It’s not what I feel most comfortable with, I prefer positional play.”
Xavi on the Champions League and Rotations:
“The Champions League is starting now, and we have to start rotating. Everyone needs to be at 100%. The victory gives you confidence, but we have to continue. The Champions League begins on Wednesday, that doesn’t stop and it’s important to have the whole team connected.”
Xavi on Ter Stagen:
“Ter Stegen is going through a great moment. Ter Stegen has been spectacular, as well as the whole defensive line. Getting a clean sheet is very important.”
Xavi on Lewandowski:
Lewandowski is a fantastic player. He’s always a solution for his teammates, which shows his maturity. We have a lot of power upfront, so we know that keeping clean sheets is crucial.”
Xavi on the Right Back position:
“We’ll see if Kounde continues to play as a right back. We have Bellerin and Sergi Roberto too. Sergi Roberto has played very well in all of the matches.”
Xavi on scoring from set pieces:
“Last week I was telling you how we need to improve on set pieces. And today, we scored from one. Little by little, we are improving in every aspect, and we have to continue in this positive way.”
That concluded Xavi’s Press conference