Barcelona coach Xavi: You say I make excuses; well, we know we must play better

Football
27 Nov 2023 • 11:51 PM MYT
Tribal Football
Tribal Football

Tribal Football covers news from the Premier League, LaLiga and Serie A

image is not available

Barcelona coach Xavi says he's seeking a "turning point" against Champions League opponents Porto tomorrow.

Barca go into the game after another stumble on Saturday in their 1-1 draw with Rayo Vallecano.

Xavi said at today's presser: "We face it with great enthusiasm. We need our fans. I hope we have a magical night.

"Things are not going the way we want. In Vallecas we played a good game. In the second half we were more aggressive. We lack continuity in the game, playing more minutes like in the second half. People feel comfortable with the plan and the staff is united. There are no problems in that.

"I speak daily with the president and Deco. They believe in the project and with the coaching staff. There is trust.

"We have to go for the games from the first minute, we only react to an emergency. You have to be self-critical. The team is comfortable with the system. Tomorrow could be a turning point for the team. We would meet a season goal. You have to go for it."

He also said: "I'm fine, with energy, more positive than ever. I am the one who leads the team and I believe a lot in the footballers. Blind faith in them and in the work of the entire coaching staff. There is always criticism. It is a reminder of what I experienced as a footballer. Nothing changes.

"Here they always talk about a crisis if you don't win. You always have to win. It is the requirement. There is always criticism, it is normal, it is accepted to improve, be more forceful, have a more positive and winning mentality. Bara is the maximum requirement.

"You always say that I protect myself with excuses; no, we have to play better."