Pedri says Europa League is of 'great value' for Barça

The moment is here. FC Barcelona make their debut in this season's UEFA Europa League on Saturday with the first leg of their play off tie against Napoli. Camp Nou will welcome back the competition for the first time in 18 years as Xavi Hernández look to take the first step to claiming a place in the last 16. 

In the run up to the game, coach Xavi Hernández and midfielder Pedri González appeared before the press on Wednesday. For Pedri the game is a vital one as Barça "place great value on this competition." 

"While it's true we are not in the Champions League, where we would like to be, we are going into the Europa League with a desire to compete and win," said the teenager. 

"The fans have to be excited. We are a young team and we are going to do our best. I urge the fans to come to Camp Nou because we are going to give it everything to win." 

The Spain international admitted that it would be not be easy: "Napoli have a great midfield. I know Fabián and I get on well with him. It will be a great battle and let's hope we can win." 

More from Pedri:

His recovery from injury

“After an injury you never know how you are going to come back. I worked hard to come back in the best possible way and that is what has happened. The boss has confidence in me and I am happy." 

His style of play 

“Xavi played in my position and he sees football like I do. He is helping me a lot and also Gavi, Nico and the other young midfielders." 

"I still have a lot to learn and I don't set limits for myself because I want to keep improving and enjoying it." 

"Since the end of last season I have though that I need to get in the box more. I am working on it and Xavi wants me to do it. Little by little I am getting better." 

"I think of all the things the boss says to us, we should get in the box and look around to see where the defenders are...he helps us all and I try to follow his advice."