The classic has already begun. The classic, which will be played for the 28th time between Barça and Madrid in Montjuïc next Saturday, started this weekend in the press room. The white draw in Sevilla (1-1) and Barça’s victory against Athletic (1-0) caused trouble in the classification with a goal from Marc Guiu. Madrid is ahead but only has a one point advantage. And wary of what will be decided in the next duel, Xavi warns. “I’m not worried about the referee’s performance, we don’t have to give conditions to anyone“Barcelona coach warned about possible problems this week.
He did not mention it directly, but according to the Barça coach, Real Madrid TV videos directed at referees have become a dangerous tradition. “I don’t like this being conditioned on the CTA“Referees Technical Committee,” Xavi said, introducing this element of discussion to ensure that the referee appointed for Saturday would not be subjected to a barrage of pressure.
“We should let them work.”
It is very important that the Barça coach warns of the danger before delving into subsequent complaints that do not affect the possible outcome of the classic. “We have to let them work,” Xavi emphasized several times. He believes in the “integrity of referees”.
Once the message was sent and relieved by Marc Guiu’s restorative goal that kept Barça close to the challenge of Madrid, Xavi will be in the infirmary more than usual this week. Against Athletic, he saved Balde (starter) and Lamine Yamal (substitute who played in the last half hour).
The coach has not yet ruled out the possibility of Lewandowski, Pedri, Frenkie de Jong or Raphinha dueling with Madrid
“Koundé won’t be there,” the coach admitted, giving up on the French defender who was injured at Granada. Later, the coach emphasized that “Sergi Roberto is not there either” and stated that the captain, who had a muscle problem in training last week, would have to watch the classic from the stands.
“Others? Let’s see, it depends on their feelings,” said the coach. Who are the others? Well Lewandowski, Frenkie de Jong, Pedri and Raphinha. In other words, four players who single-handedly changed Barça’s profile. And even more so in a classic. But Xavi will not force anyone, no matter how important it is to beat Madrid and overtake them in the standings, and no matter how important Girona’s chances of being top even if they fail to beat Celta at Montilivi on Friday.