Valladolid: Xavi ignites for Lewandowski and responds clearly on Pique and Jordi Alba

Barça recorded a second consecutive victory, and with style. The Catalans won 4-0 at home to Real Valladolid with goals from Lewandowski, Pedri and Sergi Roberto. Xavi returned to the game after the encounter.

“I think we played 40 minutes in the first half in a great way. At the start of the second half the team fell a bit. […] Now we think about the Sevilla match. Today we played a fairly complete match and we are making good progress. When you score the goal in the 24th minute, it gives you more confidence and security. We were very good in the high pressure and after the loss we were intense in the traffic.”

The Barça coach also spoke about his new recruits, Raphinha and Robert Lewandowski, with whom he is very satisfied after in particular a new double from the Pole.

“Lewandowski is extraordinary, he is a natural leader, a born worker. He is an example. […] Raphinha played a big role tonight.”

Finally, the former Blaugrana midfielder returned to his strong choices, since he had notably left Gérard Piqué and Jordi Alba on the bench, preferring them Jules Koundé and Alejandro Balde.

“I want to be honest with the team and I put the ones I see best. Alba and Pique are going to play because they are important and they are leaders. They have the humility to accept this situation but this may change. I have no doubt that they will participate. […] Balde is playing because he is good and he deserves it. We are talking about meritocracy and this is its moment. Now we will need rotations, more experienced people.”