Xavi spoke about preferring Balde over Jordi Alba, meritocracy, changed roles of captains, and the team’s overall performance against Real Valladolid in his post-match press conference.
Xavi on his team’s overall performance:
“We were in the opponent’s half. The team enjoyed the match. This is the right way forward, and we must congratulate the players on their work. I’m happy with the team’s work. We have to keep working and decide the matches early.”
“When you score the first goal in the 24th minute, that gives you more security and peace of mind. In the first 40 minutes, we were excellent but the team dropped off a bit in the start of the second half.”
Xavi on Lewandowski:
“Lewandowski is a natural goalscorer, but he also helps us a lot in defense. I think Lewandoski is an extraordinary player. He is a natural leader and a born worker. He is an example for the squad. He is adaptable. He helps his colleagues and even helps us as the technical staff. It’s great to have him with us. Apart from the goals, I want to highlight Lewandowski’s timing. He has the ball and protects it often.”
Xavi on Jules Kounde’s role:
“When we talk about Koundé, we’re speaking about a player that can mark an era at Barca. He can do everything, play out from the back, has personality, and leadership, and can play in any defensive position. We’ve made a great signing.”
Xavi on Ter Stagen’s improvement:
“Ter Stegen has played 3 great matches. I have zero doubts about him. Ter Stegen needed his long holidays this year, he’s very demanding, he knows what he was doing wrong and he has started working on it with De la Fuente.”
Xavi on Eric Garcia:
“Having Eric García in the team is a joy, it’s a wonder to train him and I’m very happy for him. He could be the captain at only 21 years old. He receives a lot of criticism. But for me, he is absolutely wonderful. He’s a top professional, and today he played another amazing match.”
Xavi on scoring from set-pieces:
“Sergio Alegre gives his life in order for the team to benefit from set-pieces. It’s about believing and being convinced that a corner kick can give you a win too. It’s something we’re undoubtedly working to improve on.”
Xavi on starting Balde over Alba:
“Balde is playing because he’s working very well. We’re speaking about meritocracy. It’s his moment.”
Xavi on the new role of club Captains:
“The captains are doing well leading the group. They accept their situations. Jordi Alba and Piqué will have minutes and opportunities.”
Xavi on Barca’s next game:
“Now we’re thinking about the Sevilla game. Today we played a fairly complete game and we’re taking small steps. We cannot stick with the same plan. It depends on the opponent.”
That concluded Xavi’s post-match press conference.
