Xavi: 'We are a close-knit group'

The group's close-knit nature was a key takeaway from Xavi Hernández' press conference today, held before the Super Cup starts in earnest against Osasuna tomorrow. Xavi mentioned his opposite number Arrasate a number of times before the press, and Ronald Araujo also gave his thoughts.

The Catalan coach won his first trophy with the Club at last year's edition of the Super Cup and emphasised how important winning it again would be. “Firstly, we really respect Osasuna, but lifting the Super Cup could be a turning point, just like it was for us last year”, he stated. “The group are really looking forward to it and are close-knit”, he added.

Respect for Osasuna

There was also praise for the Osasuna coach, as he remarked that “Jagoba Arrasate is a great coach who prepares really well for games. His team are high energy, they press really well, play down the flanks… They are a tough and resilient opponent who we really respect”, he warned.

Xavi went on to discuss the blaugranes' situation, stating “we are getting back to our style, but we need to find consistency". "We need to improve in both areas; we need to be more decisive”, he analysed, adding that team play has sometimes given way to individualism. “We will start the best team based on all the circumstances”, he indicated.

When asked about being tagged as favourites, Xavi explained that the proof will be in the pudding. So, the focus has to remain strong and FC Barcelona will have to play with all five senses to defeat an ever-combative Osasuna side.