Xavi talks Christensen, ter Stegen, Fati, Alves, Araujo following Barcelona 1-0 Getafe

Barcelona went head-to-head against Getafe tonight, hoping to add to their winning run of five games in all competitions. Eventually, they scraped a 1-0 win courtesy of a first-half winner from Pedri.

The game was understandably a tough one, with Getafe sitting back and hitting on the counter. Barça were able to get through it unscathed, as Marc-Andre ter Stegen put in another sensational performance.

“We didn’t have a good game. We kept a clean sheet, but we could have done much better,” Xavi said speaking about the game.

He also added, “We need to play better at home. I think the mental fatigue is noticeable. This is an important victory, but we didn’t do well at all.”

Ansu Fati was scrutinised for his rather underwhelming display tonight, playing as the striker. Xavi, however, spoke in defence of the youngster.

“Ansu Fati had a good game. He couldn’t get too many chances because Getafe defended with all of their men in the box.”

The coach made some interesting substitutions, including two half-time changes which saw Andreas Christensen and Alejandro Balde brought off for Eric Garcia and Jordi Alba. Xavi explained both changes, saying:

“Balde was good, but we brought in Alba as a tactical change. We needed him to support the midfield.”

“Christensen was replaced as he had some discomfort. I think he will be ready for the next match.”

As for the subs he did not make, like bringing on Frenkie de Jong or Ronald Araujo, he clarified, “We preferred to rest Araujo and De Jong.”

Yesterday, Xavi was asked to comment on Dani Alves’ sexual harassment case, which was unsurprisingly misinterpreted by the media. He spoke about it again after the game.

“People misinterpreted what I was trying to say about the Dani Alves situation. I didn’t mention the victims. It must be denounced. I was wrong, and I apologise

“Regarding the Dani Alves case, these acts must be punished, coming from Dani or anyone else. I want to apologize and support the victim. I understand that they’re not going through the best situation. I’m sorry,” he said further.

Sergio Busquets was awarded the official man of the match, but it was ter Stegen whose heroics kept Barcelona in the game. Xavi, too, recognised this, saying, “We’re witnessing the best Ter Stegen in a long time. I’m happy for him because I’ve always supported him.”

“Ter Stegen is a leader. He works so hard for the team, and it’s so important to have a goalkeeper that can win you matches like he does.”

Source: “Ter Stegen is a leader. He works so hard for the team, and it’s so important to have a goalkeeper that can win you matches like he does.”

Source: BarçaTV+