Xavi says it's a real 'challenge' to win in Munich

Barça coach Xavi Hernández faced the media on Monday ahead of the clash with Bayern Munich in the Champions League group stage on Tuesday in the Allianz Arena. The blaugrana boss answered questions about his team's current excellent form and their German opponents. Let's take a look at what he said: 

The team's situation 

"We are playing against one of the best sides in the world. It's a real challenge to win here. We are in better form than last year and we think we will be able to compete tomorrow." 

"It's true that we have only beaten Bayern twice in the Champions League and never in their stadium and that show's what a difficult challenge it is. We can do it; we are in good shape and we come here with a lot of hope." 

A change in mentality 

"What I think has changed the most since the game nine months ago is our mentality. That day I said we had to work hard and show character but it was not a good showing. I think we have changed our mentality." 

"We have to go out there without any fear. We can lose but we have to go out to win, pressure high up the field and have the ball, that's Barça. We need personality and the right attitude. Also, the signings and victories have helped us." 

Julian Nagelsmann's Bayern 

“Nagelsmann seems to me a great coach and he has shown that with his teams. He's tactically aware and his Bayern side work well, they are intense and get plenty of players in the box, pressing high up. They do a lot of things really well." 

The game

"I see a close game, with two teams who want possession and will press high up the field to win the ball back as soon as possible." 

"Playing against Bayern is always tough. I will be happy if we compete and give everything out there on the field. If we can do that then I think we have a good chance of winning the game." 

Robert Lewandowski

“Robert looks in good shape. Calm and confident, he is a natural leader for the team. It will be a special game for him and after not starting the other day [against Cádiz] he will be fresh." 

"He is really important for us but we have lots of attacking players. Midfielders, wingers, we have lots of options and we want to show that tomorrow." 

Possible debut for Raphinha in Europe 

“Raphinha is an important player for me. He is very dynamic and brings us a lot in attack and defence. His intensity, how he defends, covers space, moves and works. He is a fantastic footballer and I have a lot of confidence in him and he is important for tomorrow."