FC Barcelona is gearing up for its seventh match in the 2023-24 La Liga season, facing Mallorca in a midweek fixture. Xavi’s team has been in excellent form lately, winning all their matches since the draw against Getafe on Matchday 1 of the current La Liga season. They currently lead the league table, tied with Girona with 16 points, closely pursued by Real Madrid with 15 points.
Xavi addressed the media in a pre-match conference ahead of the Barcelona vs. RCD Mallorca match. He acknowledged the challenge posed by Mallorca, emphasizing their defensive prowess, physical strength, and the threat they pose on the counter-attack.
Reflecting on their previous match against Celta Vigo, Xavi noted the importance of mobility and positional changes in attack, stressing the need for better positioning and positional play.
While Barcelona has ascended to the top of the league table, Xavi remained focused on taking one game at a time and not making premature calculations. He emphasized the importance of the next match against Mallorca.
Xavi refrained from making squad comparisons between Barcelona and Real Madrid, stating that he will offer his opinion in June. He also expressed contentment with the current squad.
Xavi praised individual players for Barcelona’s recent success, particularly newcomers like Iñigo, Oriol Romeu, Gündogan, Cancelo, and Joao Félix.
Regarding recent injuries to Frenkie de Jong and Vitor Roque, Xavi hoped for a swift recovery for both players, with Roque potentially returning in January after conservative treatment.
Xavi discussed replacements for the injured midfielders, suggesting that players like Gündogan could fill the void. He lauded Gavi for his versatility and commitment to the team.
Xavi acknowledged that Barcelona’s squad is not very large but highlighted the versatility of the players, including Sergi Roberto, Cancelo, Ferran, Rafa, Joao Félix, and Ronald Araujo.
He praised Raphinha’s performance and noted that he will become increasingly important for the team.
Xavi mentioned his plan to make rotations in upcoming matches to keep players fresh and prevent injuries.
He also indicated that there are a few players who have played every match and may need rest in the coming days.
Xavi concluded by expressing his satisfaction with the weekend’s events, focusing on taking each game as it comes and continuing to perform well.