Xavi: ‘We have to be more consistent than last season’

DALLAS, Texas — In his first press conference of the 2022/23 season, Xavi Hernández revealed what he believes is the formula for winning major titles. "We must be more consistent than last season,” he said. “I think we played very good matches at times, but now we have to be more consistent.”

The coach, who missed the first leg of the American tour due to administrative and passport reasons, admits to being "happy with how we are training and competing" during the first few weeks of pre-season, with a mix of gym sessions and outdoor workouts.

Speaking the match against Juventus set for Tuesday, Xavi revealed that Ferran Torres will not play. "He has a wound on his foot and it bothers him, because it is where he shoots. He is an important footballer but he will not be able to play against Juventus,” Xavi said. 

"The idea is to rotate players. The most important thing now is not the result, but having good sensations.”

Praise for Pablo Torre

The coach of the first team was also asked about Pablo Torre, who he showered with praise. "He will be in the first team dynamic,” Xavi said. “I am very happy with him. He understands very well what we want and he has the drive and ambition.”

"When he doesn’t participate with the first team, he will be able to play with Barça Atlètic. He’s talented.”

Ins and outs

Asked about Koundé and the possible exits from the team, Xavi gave few clues. He explained that he cannot make any new signings official and, at the same time, he acknowledged that the Club is "trying to help" the players who have not traveled to the United States so that they leave on transfers or on loan.

Xavi was also asked about Leo Messi, now at PSG. “He has a contract and it's impossible right now,” Xavi said. “Messi is the best footballer in the world and in history. President Laporta already said that Messi's story with Barça is not over, but now is not the time to talk about it.”