Xavi has held a press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash against Girona, which he expects will be a difficult task. He also stated that the club will not bring in a replacement for Ter Stegen, who is out for the next few months.
“It’s a big game. Very surprising for most people, Girona have shared first place, but for us it’s no surprise. It’s a dynamic team with a good coach and a system similar to ours. In addition, they have huge confidence and they will make it difficult for us tomorrow, but we are coming off two good games,” he began.
“Tomorrow we expect a brave Girona who are not afraid. They want the ball, so it will be a battle for possession and to dominate the game” continued Xavi.
Here’s what he also responded to:
Does Xavi want to be a replacement for Marc-André ter Stegen?
“We are not buying a goalkeeper. We have confidence in the ones we have and we believe that Marc will recover soon”.
The mood after the victories over Porto and Atlético?
“It has strengthened our morale and self-confidence. Both games were like finals and tomorrow we meet a direct rival who is four points ahead. I hope we show the same version as against Atlético”.
Pablo Torre cannot play due to clause in the rental contract:
“I think the clause is logical enough. Look the other day against Atlético Madrid and Joao Félix. How would you feel? One of your own players should not be against you”.
Eric García does not have a corresponding clause:
“If it was up to me, everyone had such a clause, because I think it’s illogical that you play against your own team, but we didn’t get it in Eric’s contract. He will be extra motivated, as happened with Joao Félix”.
Barca again have many injured players:
“It’s part of the sport. Every year we talk about the calendar and how demanding it is. It’s a shame, but if you look at other teams, they also have two, three or four out, and the big teams five or six. It depends on the number of matches”.
President Laporta wants to buy Cancelo and Félix:
“When the president says it, it fits. Both have settled in well and are performing at a very high level. We would like to have them more than this season”.
