Xavi talks Gavi, Casemiro, Dest, ter Stegen and La Liga rules ahead of Sevilla clash

Xavi’s pre-game press conferences have been a revelation since he arrived. The Spaniard has not shied away from talking tactics, personnel, and the difficulty of his job, unlike several other coaches.

Ahead of the game against Elche, he did not hold his punches and said that there were players who “did not understand” his style “despite playing for Barcelona.” And today, ahead of the game against Sevilla, he called a rule “stupid”. We follow all quotes from his pre-game presser in this article.

On Sevilla and the game: “Sevilla is a direct rival, it is a great opportunity… We often look abroad a lot, but how Sevilla has worked in recent years, with Monchi, with Lopetegui, they’re an example.”

On Gavi’s renewal: “We have to move quickly to renew Gavi. And if necessary we will put money together because he, like Nico, Araújo, Abde and Ansu, is the future of the club.”

On Sergino Dest: “Dest’s problem is physical. He’s not in a condition to play. He doesn’t feel good, he’s not comfortable.”

On Casemiro’s potential red card-worthy foul yesterday: “It is not up to me to judge. I have already said 3-4 times that I will not talk about the referees because their work is very, very, difficult.”

On ter Stegen: “For us, ter Stegen is fundamental. His commitment, dedication and professionalism is extraordinary. With ter Stegen there is no debate because for me he is still one of the best goalkeepers in the world.”

On Sevilla’s form: “Sevilla is ready to fight for La Liga. Last season they were close to winning it and now, if they beat us tomorrow, they are three points behind the leader… I insist that Sevilla is an example in every way.”

On Sergi Barjuan’s B team: “We are very happy with Sergi’s work at Barça B, everyone who goes up to the first team is ready to play. The last example is Jutglà, who from the first minute shows understanding of the game.”

On ter Stegen’s skill with the ball: “Ter Stegen has the best possible playmaking qualities as a goalkeeper. Only Neuer is at his level, there is no other goalkeeper with that quality. Against Villarreal we won thanks to work by Ter Stegen with the move to Memphis. I am delighted with Ter Stegen.”

On Nico Gonzalez: “Nico is a total footballer. He is a footballer who can adapt to different positions in midfield.”

On an absurd La Liga rule: “The other day I made the line-up and Naval told me that if we would get a red card, we would be punished with three points. I can only put three players of Barça B in the XI. It is a somewhat stupid rule. In January we value promoting some players.”

Source: BarçaTV+