Xavi Hernández and Jules Koundé feature together in the preview for the upcoming clash with Shakhtar Donetsk. The Barcelona coach was seen alongside the French defender as anticipation built for a Champions League encounter that could shape the team’s trajectory in Europe.
Speaking from the Volksparkstadion, the home venue for Hamburg SV where Shakhtar currently hosts its European ties, Xavi outlined his assessment of Barcelona’s path forward. His remarks emphasized a belief in a strong return for a club aiming to recapture its former glory and compete at the highest level on the continental stage.
During the briefing, the coach stressed the importance of consistency, noting that impressive performances should translate into sustained success. The aim is not only to win games but to maintain a level of play that makes victories inevitable over time.
Pedri’s situation occupied a portion of the conversation, with Xavi expressing concern over injuries but acknowledging the midfielder’s impact when fit. The manager highlighted how Pedri’s presence adds clarity and momentum to the team, even as injuries have disrupted the rhythm at times.
On the broader team framework, Xavi spoke candidly about alignment and the ideal scenario for performances. He acknowledged that perfect execution in every match is unlikely, yet the objective remains to play exceptional football and secure decisive margins. The reality, he noted, is that opponents will challenge Barcelona, demanding a flexible approach and continued progress. Patience and humility were emphasized as essential to sustaining a successful process that yields long‑term results.
In addressing the criticism that comes with a high‑profile club, the coach stated that Barça’s environment naturally generates opinions. He described the analysis conducted with the players and confirmed that a strong points haul despite a difficult display warrants acceptance of feedback as part of the learning curve.
The topic of right back and winger roles arose, with Cancelo set to return to his natural position. The plan involves using him as a winger in approximately eighty percent of duties, preserving his capacity to contribute in attack while maintaining defensive balance behind him. Both he and Xavi feel this arrangement best supports the team’s balance and tactical plan.
Reflecting on the work done since taking charge, Xavi recalled guiding the club through a challenging period marked by numerical and standing difficulties. He noted that the team managed to stabilize the season and, in the following campaign, won two titles while maintaining a high level of play. The present focus is on achieving excellence and continuing the ascent, with a sense that the journey toward Barça’s peak in Europe and domestic competition is ongoing.
The objective in the group stage remains clear: advance to the knockout rounds and finish atop the pool. He underscored the importance of the next match as a prime opportunity to advance the cause, while recognizing that the path will require focus, discipline, and consistent performance from the squad.
Pedri, Robert Lewandowski, Jules Koundé, and Rafa Mir were cited as pivotal for the team beyond mere football metrics. The manager expressed optimism about their returns and impact, noting that their presence can lift the level of play across the board and help the team maximize results when they are available again. In the meantime, the squad has extracted what it could from recent games and is intent on turning those lessons into better performances when key players are back on the pitch.
In reviewing the recent clash with Real Madrid, the analysis focused on intensity and control. The team acknowledged areas where performance lagged, and Xavi highlighted the need for higher pressing intensity and improved ball retention. The aim is to impose more authority on matches, leveraging a stronger collective effort to shrink gaps against elite opponents and to cultivate a momentum that can carry the team forward in all competitions.
Jules Koundé later shared his own reflections, addressing the balance between stamina and focus. He stressed the importance of concentration in defense, recognizing that a young squad has room to grow and must fine‑tune attention to the finer details to win tougher battles. He also touched on the reality of playing amid a demanding schedule and the need to adapt while remaining committed to his preferred role on the field.
The Barça defender spoke about his preferred position and the willingness to contribute wherever needed. He noted that last season saw him operate from a different berth, and he valued the conversations with Xavi about where his energy could have the greatest impact. He affirmed his readiness to serve the team in any capacity the coach desires, underscoring a strong sense of duty to the collective effort.
High‑pressing scenarios were analyzed as a collective challenge, with the team acknowledging how difficult it can be to recover possession against top opposition. Communication and intensity were highlighted as the keys to improving ball recovery and distribution under pressure, and the players conveyed an eagerness to translate those insights into better performances in upcoming fixtures.
Regarding the prospects of the season, there was a shared sense that some matches will test the squad more than others. The emphasis remained on growth, resilience, and teamwork, with the understanding that tough phases will come and go. The overarching message was one of unity and perseverance, with the belief that sustained effort will yield positive results and allow Barça to compete strongly across all fronts.
The broader mood around the squad reflected confidence in the plan, a recognition of the work that remains, and a readiness to tackle the challenges ahead with focus and determination. The team continues its preparation with a clear aim: to produce a performance that aligns with the club’s proud tradition and competitive ambitions.