Xavi Addresses the Real Sociedad Challenge
Xavi Hernández, the coach of FC Barcelona, stepped forward this Friday to discuss the upcoming clash with Real Sociedad, set for Saturday at 9 p.m. on Movistar. He spoke with a measured calm, emphasizing the team’s focus and unity rather than letting outside noise steer the squad. The coach confirmed Pedri is fully available and in top form, reaffirming that the midfielder will likely feature in the Anoeta match. He also noted that there have been no divisions in the locker room following Gundogan’s recent remarks. According to Xavi, the dressing room simply expressed a shared frustration and a cultural difference that should not spark controversy. The emphasis, he said, is on collective responsibility and moving forward together.
On Frenkie de Jong, Xavi stated that the midfielder is not yet ready to return to action. While the rest of the squad trains with intensity, the plan is to bring De Jong back when he is decisively prepared to contribute without risking further setbacks. The bar remains high for participation, and the coach prefers a cautious approach to ensure long-term value for the team.
Here are the standout points from the Barça coach ahead of the match against Real Sociedad.
Real Sociedad as a test and context
Real Sociedad are viewed as a formidable rival in the Champions League, recognized for their strong defense. Imanol Alguacil is acknowledged as one of the category’s best managers. Following a recent defeat to Real Madrid, the Basque side has shown signs of progress, and Barcelona acknowledges the challenge. The focus is on a disciplined performance that earns three points and reinforces Barcelona’s resolve at the start of a demanding period. As noted, this is a high-stakes fixture that demands a faultless approach from the first whistle. As reported by Goal.
The response to Gundogan’s remarks
The Barcelona camp has been clear on identity and standards. The word conformity does not sit with Barça. The team pursues excellence, without letting outside commentary derail its trajectory. The club did not interpret Gundogan’s words as controversial, instead choosing to align with the sentiment that the team is responsible for its own results. The idea is that the club’s dressing room is united, and defeats are attributed to mistakes rather than internal discord. Gundogan’s comments were seen as reflecting a shared anger rather than stirring controversy. The comparison to other clubs in similar moments, including moments after Bayern’s recent defeats, is cited to illustrate a broader football culture where criticism is part of the game but does not fracture locker rooms. As reported by Goal.
The return of Pedri
Pedri’s return is not delayed in the coach’s view. He is perceived as one hundred percent fit and ready to contribute, a development welcomed by Barcelona and its supporters. The Spanish playmaker is seen as a crucial asset, capable of elevating the team’s level with his stamina and vision. The club’s medical and training staff focus on maintaining fitness and preventing injuries, a priority given the demanding schedule. For Xavi, Pedri represents a cornerstone piece whose continuity would significantly benefit the squad’s balance and creativity.
On the topic of injuries and squad depth, Pedri is in a good place physically, while Frenkie de Jong has been dealing with discomfort. The coach stresses the importance of listening to players’ bodies and avoiding rushed returns. The club remains hopeful that De Jong will rejoin the lineup soon, but only when it is safe to do so. The message is clear: long-term health comes first, even if it means waiting a little longer for the return of a key figure.
The aftermath of the Clasico defeat
The clash against Real Madrid was tightly controlled for long stretches, but ultimately slipped away due to a few critical errors. Barcelona is focused on learning from those moments and turning them into future strengths. The team remains within striking distance of the leaders, four points back, and there is a belief that the season is still full of opportunities. The roadmap includes rigorous preparation, careful attention to detail, and the courage to press forward after setbacks. The sense is that more games lie ahead where competence and composure will determine outcomes.
Mentions of young players and expectations
Bojan’s remarks about Lamine Yamal have drawn attention, but the stance is measured. The message is that the club should nurture young talent with patience and care. There is a high expectation for Yamal, yet the emphasis is on gradual development and avoiding undue pressure. The club recognizes the importance of Bollon’s role in guiding younger players and keeping the standard high. This approach aims to sustain a healthy environment while offering young talents a clear path to growth.
The level of Oriol Romeu
Oriol Romeu is seen as performing well within the squad’s structure, though competition remains fierce. The focus is on performance as the determining factor for selection. Romeu is viewed as mentally prepared and capable of contributing meaningfully to the team’s ambitions, reinforcing the sense of collective purpose within the group.
Overall mood and locker room atmosphere
Xavi stresses that the mood around the club is constructive. He rejects any notion of anger toward the players and emphasizes a willingness to overcome obstacles. The team is described as hungry and ready to respond in the coming fixtures. The coach notes that there are still many matches to play in the league and that sustained effort is essential. The message to the press and supporters is simple: stay focused, work hard, and trust the process.
On the dressing room environment and the club’s culture
The atmosphere in the locker room is portrayed as healthy and principled. The institution is portrayed as stable and supportive, with a shared sense of purpose and discipline. The players demonstrate willingness and commitment, and the club welcomes the challenge. The overall tone is one of unity and resolve, with a shared desire to compete at the highest level.
Kubo and Real Sociedad’s threats
Kubo is highlighted as one of Real Sociedad’s most dangerous attackers. He is described as performing at a very high level, and Barcelona acknowledges the challenge of stopping him. The assessment reinforces Barcelona’s respect for the opponent and the need to maintain concentration to neutralize key threats.
The Libertadores and broader football atmosphere
Commenting on the Libertadores, the coach notes limited familiarity with the competition, focusing instead on the integrity of football across continents. He hopes for peace in the stands and acknowledges the intense passion that exists in football culture, comparing it to the classic Barcelona-Madrid rivalry in terms of emotional energy. The reflection is about the global nature of the sport and the responsibilities of clubs to foster positive experiences for fans while competing at the highest level.
Aitana, Messi and the Golden Ball discussion
Regarding Aitana’s ongoing controversy, the coach points to her impact and the DNA it brings to the game. He praises her performance as spectacular and notes that the narrative around Leo Messi reflects a deserved recognition of his career. The coach mentions having spoken with Messi recently, describing him as very happy about his status as one of the sport’s greatest ever players. As reported by Goal.
In sum, the remarks focus on unity, readiness, and a forward-looking mindset as Barcelona faces a demanding stretch of fixtures with a squad determined to maintain momentum and competitive edge.
As reported by Goal