Barcelona coach Xavi says only victory is acceptable against Valencia on Sunday.
Barcelona will be without a number of players for the game, but Xavi isn’t making any excuses and has recognised just how essential three points would be in his side’s pursuit of a top-four finish.
“Every game is like a final for us,” Xavi said during Saturday’s pre-match press conference. “We have to be in the top four.
“We urgently need the points. Winning at Valencia is essential.”
Jose Bordalas’ style is one that starkly contrasts with Xavi’s, but the Barcelona boss appreciates the work his opposite number is doing at Valencia.
“I like him,” Xavi stated. “He’s an interesting coach who is different from us. Their style is different and they’re more direct, but I like their intensity, their rhythm, their aggressiveness. They win second balls.
“They work differently to us, but I think he’s a great coach. His results show it.”
Ronald Araujo is working his way back from injury and there is hope that he may feature on Sunday.
“We’re optimistic,” Xavi noted. “He’ll train, and he wants to be there.
“If there’s nothing wrong or unusual, he could play.”
On the game itself, the coach knows that Barcelona will have to impose their style on Los Che, as Bordalas’ side can cause problems for them if not.
“I think we have to impose our rhythm and to circulate the ball well,” Xavi said. “It’s true that they impose their rhythm and intensity on teams, and it says a lot about Bordalas’ work, he’s a great coach.
“We’re going away to a tough stadium against a tough opponent. They’re an intense team and the coach does his work well. It’ll be tricky, intense, aggressive. It will take its toll on us.”
Need a VPN? Or seeking to switch? Then support Tribal Football by clicking here to sign up with our official partners NordVPN. Not only will you receive the best VPN experience, but also great discounts by signing up via Tribal Football. Thanks for your support!
Be the first to comment