Óscar Mingueza, one of the newest youngsters to take on a critical role in FC Barcelona, gave an interview this Monday to the radio program “El Larguero”. He spoke regarding the current situation of the team, Ronald Koeman, his future and much more.
Under the Dutch manager, Ronald Koeman, several young players have begun to take the first team by storm. Names such as Pedri, Ilaix Moriba, Ronald Araujo and even Riqui Puig standout. Such is the case of Óscar Mingueza who has made the right sector of the defense his nominal position. He has risen to become one of the most important players in the Blaugrana side this season. Earning him to be called up to the Spain national under-21 football team. Now, as he has progressed, so too have the expectations become greater for the young player of Catalunya.
This is what Mingueza had to say during his interview:
On Koeman
“The team has improved, it was difficult for us at the beginning, but this team needed time. For next year I hope he continues and I am very grateful for everything he has given me. He has been successful with the changes he has made. We players have also been very involved in our work.”
Regarding the team
“The captains have also been involved in organizing dinners, making a fuss, making the rookies sing … I had to sing a song from Fondo Flamenco. At that time I was not so confident and was somewhat nervous.”
On how he analyzes his game
“I usually analyze them two or three days later, but I will analyze it second. I always watch the games and analyze them to try to improve the mistakes. Even if they are small details, I always try to be very self-critical. I see them with a specialist who helps me do it.”
Regarding his position in the defense
“At first I was a bit lost on the right, but now I’m more comfortable. Playing central on the right allows me to press, and with this scheme (with three central defenders) I have more freedom, although in defense I am comfortable in any position.”
On his teammates in defense
“I like how Lenglet passes in between lines. Piqué is my reference, number 1 since I arrived. Araujo is physically spectacular and a leader. I’m not scared of competition. Being at Barça is for the best, nobody just gives it to you.”
Regarding Èric García and his possible arrival at the Camp Nou
“He is a very good defender. Barça needs the best players. He will always be welcome and those who deserve it will play.”
On his first goals with the team
“I have seen it, but not much because when I analyze the game he always points out something to me that I do well, but this time he did not say anything, to get me going. It is a message of encouragement, that the dream you are looking for can be achieved and it serves to encourage me to continue working.”
Regarding their chances of making a comeback in LaLiga
“We will try to win all the points. We hope to win everything and for them to fail.”
On Pedri
“He is a great player. He has a tremendous quality, but he still has a long way to go before comparing himself with Iniesta and Xavi. I hope that over the years, that both with the ball and in defense, he continues to work just as hard.”
On Messi possibly staying
“If it were up to me, I’d tie him up here. Nobody who loves the club can complain about what he has given us. I hope to enjoy him for more years. You have to look out for him. Since I arrived, I did not expected this affection. Leo has helped me a lot. We are players who are very united. They call on me when they have to, but with the intention of helping me.”
Regarding his contract renewal
“We have not talked about my future, there was no board of directors. But I am not worried, there is still a long season left. I hope to continue for many years at Barça. If they had told me a year ago that I was going to be in this situation I would have laughed, it was almost unthinkable.”
