In ten days, the Barcelona stopped dreaming of chasing the Real Madrid and went on to contemplate second place in LALIGA as an objective that is as indisputable as it is necessary.
The victory of Girona in Las Palmas and the direct confrontation between the two in the next round still spice up the visit of the Catalan team to face the Valence on Monday (29). The match will be broadcast exclusive to Star+ subscribers from 4pm (Brasília time).
And everything is even more attractive as it is Barcelona’s first commitment after Xavi Hernández confirmed that he will continue to lead the team next season.
“We have the objective of coming second to be able to compete in the Spanish Super Cup, and for that we have to beat Valencia, as we achieved our first objective, which was a place in the Champions League”, said the coach, who said he was “ happy and enthusiastic” once his stay has been decided, but he warned that at this moment “the most important thing is to finish the season well”.
With the next season approaching, planning is taking shape.
“The prognosis has already been made” said Xavi, who despite trying not to mention names, was unable to escape questions on the subject.
Xavi was adamant in naming De Jong as “fundamental for Barcelona”, and of course about Sergi Roberto. “I want him to stay and the club knows my position. He is a player who helps us a lot”.
The coach, however, was less incisive when discussing the club’s trip to the market. “The club’s situation will shape the planning in the end.”
Being silent regarding signings, Xavi repeated that the player who offers the best performance “will always play”.
“I’m not interested in the age of a football player because I’m guided by his performance and I think I’ve already demonstrated that.”
The Barcelona coach still raised a tone of mystery in the air when he was questioned by a journalist about Vitor Roque, adopting a speech that was less concise and much less conclusive.
When asked directly about a possible transfer, Xavi avoided it.
“We will decide at the end of the season. It’s not easy coming from Brazil, from another league, and at your age. It’s not easy to make a difference at Barcelona. He needs time, adaptation, he needs to have more minutes, more confidence. But I believe he is an athlete who has the capacity to play for Barcelona. We will decide at the end of the season.”
Where to watch Barcelona vs Valencia
Barcelona x Valencethis Monday (29), at 4pm (Brasília time), by LALIGAwill be broadcast exclusive to Star+ subscribers
