Xavi thinks his Barcelona team can compete at the highest level, but has one demand

The Barcelona setup under Xavi Hernandez is appearing to shape up well, as evident by the team’s blazing performances, especially since the turn of the year.

A smart January transfer window, coupled with the return of form for several players has revved up the Barça machine, with the team well on course to securing a top-four finish in La Liga come May.

According to a report from OnzeTV3, Xavi himself is confident of his team’s ability to compete at the highest level next season, especially after the return of Ansu Fati.

The talented winger has recently returned from his hamstring injury and has begun training. Local reports suggest Fati is looking “stronger than ever” and could soon be available for action.

While Fati’s return could significantly strengthen the Barcelona frontline, Xavi has a key request from the club’s hierarchy this summer, which is to find a reliable replacement for Ousmane Dembele.

The blazing Frenchman is set to leave Camp Nou after the end of the season, as the club are not in a position to meet his exorbitant wage demands, despite his agents reportedly restarting talks over a potential extension.

Barcelona are scouring the market for a replacement for Dembele, with Raphinha reportedly emerging as the top target.

President Joan Laporta has recently confirmed Barcelona’s interest in the player, so it will be interesting to see what the future holds, not only for the Brazilian but for Dembele himself, as the Frenchman looks to take the next step in his career.