Statements from Xavi Hernández after the Barcelona-Napoli (3-1) match in the Champions League round of 16.
Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona's head coach, expressed immense satisfaction and a touch of vindication following his team's successful advancement to the Champions League quarterfinals.
This achievement comes after a period of doubt and criticism, both for Xavi personally and the team as a whole, marking Barcelona's return to the last eight of the competition for the first time in four years. "We are very happy. We played a great game, a complete game," Xavi shared, emphasizing the team's exhaustive effort and domination over significant portions of the match. His pride in the team's performance was evident, highlighting their step forward in one of football's most prestigious competitions.
Addressing the recent criticisms head-on, Xavi pointed out the lack of faith many had in his leadership and the premature claims of him losing the locker room. "People didn't believe in me," he stated, reflecting on the skepticism he faced. Yet, the team's display against their opponents was a testament to their ability to compete at the highest level in Europe, showcasing excellent control and strategic play both with and without the ball. Xavi praised his team's ability to prevent counterattacks and maintain nearly excellent performance levels, subtly countering his critics with the results on the pitch.
The support from the fans did not go unnoticed by Xavi, who appreciated the vibrant atmosphere created by the supporters at the stadium. Their enthusiasm and presence significantly contributed to the joyous occasion, reinforcing the connection between the team and its fanbase as they collectively savored the moment of triumph.
Xavi also highlighted the impact of strategic substitutions during the match, praising the likes of Sergi and Oriol for injecting freshness into the team and acknowledging João Félix and others for their contributions. He emphasized the credit due to a squad boasting many young talents, signaling a bright future ahead for Barcelona.
Particularly noteworthy was Xavi's praise for the young Cubarsí, whose composure and skillful play from the back impressed both the coach and the spectators. Xavi admired Cubarsí's ability to remain calm under pressure, his seamless connections with other players, and his overall contribution to the team's dynamic play, describing it as a spectacle. This blend of experience, youthful energy, and tactical acumen under Xavi's guidance hints at a resurgence for Barcelona, now eagerly awaiting their next challenge in the Champions League quarterfinals.
