Xavi Hernandez talks possible signings, lineup, and players ahead of his first Barcelona game

Xavi Hernandez addressed the press for the first time as the Barcelona manager on Saturday. The Spaniard spoke about his ideology, various players, and his thoughts about the derby. Here are the quotes from his pre-match press conference.

On his advice to players: “I have told the players to be calm, that I trust them and that they have to be comfortable on the pitch. We will have to work hard against a team that is prepared well. I am happy with what I have seen.

“We haven’t had many days to work, but the idea is clear. It is a matter of values, attitude, effort and sacrifice.”

“This week we have held a lot of talks with the players, making it clear what we want in defense, attack and what kind of strategy we will use. I hope that tomorrow we can see things of that in the game.”

Xavi continued: “I was surprised by the talent of the squad. We come from where we come from, and the talent shows. The intensity, the rhythm and the desire to do well have also surprised us. I see a lot of enthusiasm.”

On the lineup tomorrow: “We train after the press conference and I’ll see. We still haven’t decided on the lineup. My feelings are good with the youngsters, not only with those who were in the first team but also with those who have been rising. There may be surprises.

“We have injuries and we will have to bet on young players; they are ready.”

On his rules for the team: “I also have a life outside the of football. It’s more rules of coexistence that we see as fundamental for a group. I have not had to be a sergeant, it is a matter of order rather than discipline. These first days are going very well.”

On Dani Alves: “Dani Alves is a winner, he will help us. He is very good physically, he will help us with everything.”

On his feelings over the situation: “I am very calm. I am positive and I am happy and excited to be at what I consider my home. I am less nervous than when I was a footballer, which is the difficult thing, to do things on the pitch. The objective is to transmit an idea to the players.”

On Barcelona’s position in various competitions: “We are not in the best position, but the objective is to win tomorrow, win on Tuesday and climb positions.”

On Gavi: “Gavi is versatile, he can play as a winger, an interior, and even as a pivot, he has a very complete profile, therefore he is a very important player for the present and future.”

On the feelings about the Derby: “Tomorrow is a special match for any player, especially for the homegrown players. Winning a derby reinforces you.”

On Memphis Depay: “Memphis is a very important player. We are talking about a player who can make the difference. We need him.”

On the availability of forwards: “All players fit me. I already said that they all start from scratch and we need everyone available. Everyone has to be important and be prepared. Luuk de Jong? The same goes for him, obviously.”

On Phillipe Coutinho: “Philippe is a player who can play in various positions. He must regain confidence, I have spoken with him and I think he can be very important. He has to find himself again, and he will help us a lot.”

On Frenkie de Jong: “Frenkie is a player who must be very important to us. He must make a difference, get into the box and score goals. He is key.”

On possible signings: “We’re in good harmony with everyone at the club. We will decide when it’s time. It’s still not January.”

Source: Barça TV+