Xavi reflects on Sevilla 0-3 Barcelona

All eyes were on Barcelona after Real Madrid’s win over Real Betis earlier on Saturday night. After all, a win would send the Blaugranas straight to second place on the table and within two points of their arch-rivals.

The opening minutes against Sevilla were far from easy for Xavi’s men as they struggled to find their rhythm. However, everything changed after the opeing goal.

From the 20th minute, Barcelona steamrolled Los Nervionenses at their own den as they created chance after chance. With this win, the team have now scored a whopping 11 goals in their last three league games.

Xavi Hernandez spoke to the media after his team’s big win and spoke about topics ranging from the overall performance to areas of improvement. Here are the snippets from his press conference.

On the overall result: “We played a very good match, we possessed and had chances to improve the result. Winning at a complex ground is a positive sign.”

On the rough start to the game: “We didn’t start well in the first 15 minutes, but then, 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.”

On Gavi’s performance: “Gavi does not surprise me, I follow him every day in training. I don’t want to be unfair with the rest, but maybe he was the best in the match.”

On the tactical surprise thrown by Sevilla: “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.”

On Ousmane 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.”

On the level of the opposition: “Sevilla are a dangerous team. They showed that in the first 10/15 minutes.”

On his team’s growth: “We have to continue to be humble. We’re on the right track, but we have to improve.”

On Gavi’s relentless nature: “The intensity that Gavi plays with is amazing. I hope he continues at this level.”

On playing at Ramon Sanchez Pijzuan: “We could not control the match at the beginning. It’s hard to win at this stadium.”

On his team’s defensive record: “Getting a clean sheet is very important.”

On Robert Lewandowski: “Lewandowski is a fantastic player. He’s always a solution for his teammates, which shows his maturity.”

On his philosophy: “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.”

On the right-back situation: “We’ll see if Kounde continues to play as a right back. We have Bellerin and Sergi Roberto too.”

On the La Liga race: “We’re wrong if we think this will be a hand-in-hand with Real Madrid. It hasn’t been easy to win here or in San Sebastian.”

On the long season ahead: “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.”

On the UEFA Champions League: “The Champions League is starting now, and we have to start rotating. Everyone needs to be at 100%.”

On Ter Stegen’s form: ”Ter Stegen is going through a great moment.”

On the path ahead: “Let’s take advantage of our good results and our positive dynamic.”

On the clean sheet: “We have a lot of power upfront, so we know that keeping clean sheets is crucial. Ter Stegen has been spectacular, as well as the whole defensive line.”

On 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 on every aspect, and we have to continue in this positive way.”

Source: Barça TV+