“Dembélé has to make a difference, be more constant and score more goals”
“Pjanic has a unique vision of the game and there are not many players who see the game at first touch”
Xavi acknowledged that Barça did not offer their best version in the draw against Juventus (2-2), but left happy with what they saw: “We have been thicker than normal, but I attribute it to the lack of rhythm, the heat and to the field, which was very dry. In the first half we suffered a bit, because the interiors and the wingers have to defend more inside, but I leave with a good feeling. We are on the right way“.
Having said this, the Barça coach wanted to reduce the euphoria that has been created especially after the victory against Real Madrid: “Who said that we are the best team in Europe? we have neither euphoria nor debate, we have to be emotionally balanced. We are on the right track, but we have to be very humble and work hard as we are doing.”
The Blaugrana coach highlighted the performance of Ousmane Dembélé, decisive with his two goals: “He has shown what he is capable of, making a difference from the right wing with one-on-two actions. He is a different, special player and he gives us a lot. He has to make a difference, be more consistent, score more goals. I don’t know Dembélé from before, but since I arrived I see him happy and he always tells me that he is involved in the project. I’ve seen him like this since November, that’s why I was so insistent that he stay.”
Xavi also valued Lewandowski’s contribution: “He helps us a lot with his work and with his pressure. The goals will come, because he has scored them all his career. He is a footballer with an extraordinary capacity for us and he is going to help us a lot.”
The man from Terrassa also analyzed Pjanic’s game, the Bosnian’s first in this pre-season: “I liked it a lot. He gives us a lot with the ball, he found the interiors very well, has an exclusive vision of the game of football in general, because there are not many who see the game at first touch. She always looks ahead, looks very well for the pass to nine. He has played a great game.”
Xavi clarified that Sergi Roberto’s change was not the product of any physical problem: “It was agreed that he would start after 30 minutes and I preferred them to start, because he lacked intensity. The change was not because he had any injury”. About his substitute, Dest, he pointed out: “It has been good, he corrects well. It is an important project for the future.”