Barcelona have clinched the second spot in LaLiga table, after winning 1-0 against Sevilla at the Camp Nou. The team leaded by Xavi Hernández had a very solid performance against a very tough rival. After the final whistle, Xavi, Pedri and Araujo all spoke to the press.
When Xavi first took control over the first team of FC Barcelona no one could have predicted the amazing turnaround the club would have. Currently, Barça sits in the second place of LaLiga and is clear favorite in the Europa League quarter-finals against Frankfurt.
On the other hand, key players such as Piqué and de Jong have once again regained their top form and the Barça youngsters like Pedri and Gavi are playing like never before. The magic nights at the Camp Nou are back.
This is what Xavi Hernández had to say after his team won against Sevilla tonight:
On the match
“We were missing that final touch. They defend incredibly. They sank with Gudelj and the two center backs and our only solution was the back pass. We have been better than a super team, especially defensively. We won against a direct rival. I think we are almost at the best moment of the season and we have to take advantage of it.”
Regarding Pedri’s wonder goal
“I already said that he is an amazing player. He makes the differences, also in the goal. We encourage him to shoot and, in space-time, he is an excellent player. I’m not surprised. He is a player that has no comparison.”
On Pedri’s leadership
“There are many types of leadership. There is the coach. And then we have the captains like Ter Stegen or Pedri who is a leader on the pitch. But the leadership he has on the pitch is extraordinary.”
Pedri González had an amazing first season with Barcelona and gave glimpses of greatness. However, currently the young Spanish magician is playing on whole other level. In yesterday’s match he scored what possibly is the best goal of his short career.
After the match, Pedri spoke with the press:
Regarding the match
“We’re already second and we’re going for first place. We know that LaLiga is difficult, but we are Barça and we have to fight for it. Madrid is also having a hard time and you have to try.”
On his goal
“It is similar to the one in Galatasaray, I could see it in the video scoreboard. When I saw one leg, I cut back and when I shoot I already know that the ball is going to go inside.”
Regarding the warmth of the fans
“It’s crazy, from the first day I’ve felt very loved. They deserve it because they are the best fans in the world.”
Ronald Araujo has become one of the most important pillars of Barcelona’s future. He has consolidated his place in the back of the defense and the team.
Here is what Araujo had to say after the final whistle:
On his current situation
“I am very happy to be here. Happy with the support of the people. We are working on the renewal. This week we have a meeting. I hope that it is resolved soon so that I can continue for many years at this club. I want to stay here. I’m optimistic.”
Regarding the match
“We knew the importance of this match, that if we won, we would take second place. A little while ago we were seventh and now we are second. The team is growing a lot.”
On Pedri
“We are very happy for Pedri, he is an extraordinary player, spectacular. Now he not only controls the ball, but now he also scores. We are glad that he is with us and hopefully he will be here a long time.”
