If the quarter-final of the Champions League between PSG and FC Barcelona will take place in almost a month (April 10 and 16), the confrontation has already been launched at a press conference.
A few hours after Luis Enrique, it was Xavi, the Barça coach, who raised the subject to the Spanish media.
Returning to this stage of the competition after three years of absence, the Catalan club will not be favorites according to their coach, who speaks of a “very complicated” draw.
“PSG is one of the most difficult opponents to face.
I know Luis Enrique, a brilliant coach, and some of his players.
His teams are very hardworking.
We will play the return match at home.
We hope to do a good qualifying round but it will be difficult.
It's time to dream.
They are one of the best teams in Europe,” said Xavi.
❝PSG is a difficult opponent.
But this is the opportunity to show that we can be up to the task in the Champions League.
We are motivated and impatient.❞
- 𝐗𝐚𝐯𝐢 pic.twitter.com/cNCaJf5UTm
— FC Barcelona (@fcbarcelona_fra) March 16, 2024
“We have history on our side”
The 44-year-old technician, who will leave Barcelona at the end of the season, also put forward “economic reasons” to justify the status of favorite of the Parisians.
“We know that Paris Saint-Germain are probably the favorites because of the huge transfers they have made.
We can't spend that much on recruiting.
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🔵🔴 Xavi on UCL drew: “We know that Paris Saint-Germain are probably the favorites because of the huge transfers that they made…”.
“But remember we have the history by our side with more Champions League trophies”.
“I'm sure we can compete, we will do our best”.
pic.twitter.com/zURXQzYqcc
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 16, 2024
After his men's victory against Naples (1-1, 3-1) in the round of 16, Xavi nevertheless remains positive about the reunion with PSG.
“Remember that we have history on our side with more Champions League trophies” recalled the former Spanish midfielder, referring to the five C1s won by the Blaugranas.
This is an opportunity to show that we are capable of competing on a European level.
We have to show what we are worth and our talent on the pitch.
Nothing more,” he concluded.