Xavi: If a player wants to go we will have to look for a replacement
Memphis Depay has been linked with Atletico Madrid and Carrasco could swap
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez spoke in a press conference ahead of the Spanish Super Cup clash with Real Madrid.
“I see a very strong Madrid, very strong. Psychologically they have an advantage because they have played more finals, they have more experience. But we have to show our ambition and that we have desire and hunger to win a title at last.
“I am motivated, excited. It was hard for us to get here and if Ancelotti has not lost a single match final since 2010 then I am more motivated.”
For the coach, Barca have to “keep our structure and ambition against a very strong Madrid” and he said it was a big opportunity.
“Barca have to win, we are here to win titles, that’s the objective. We’re 90 or 120 minutes from winning a title and we’ll go for it. Not because the rival is Madrid, we’d have enthusiasm whoever it was.”
Xavi also spoke about VAR.
“Maybe with VAR you lose some of the spice of football, the celebration, waiting because the goal is not yet valid, but on the other hand it’s fairer. I like the justice.”
Finally, asked about Memphis Depay potentially departing with Yannick Carrasco a potential replacement, he said: “I don’t want anyone to go, I won’t speak about names but if a player asks to leave, I ask the club for a player in their place to fill the gap.”
