Xavi says Atlético game 'vital, like all the ones that remain'
Sunday's sees another top quality test for Xavi Hernández's Barça side as they travel to Madrid to take on Atlético in the Cívitas Metropolitano, kick off 9pm CET. In his pre-game press conference on Saturday, the blaugrana coach looked ahead to the stern test in La Liga and to next month's Champions League quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain.
For Xavi Hernández, Sunday's game is a "vital one, like all the ones that remain because we need to pick up points in the league."
"The game is against a Champions League rival and they showed that the other day, a really tough away game and I think both sides are in good form. I am sure it will be a great game and let's hope we can pick up three points although I don't think they have lost at home in the league since we won there last season," added the Barça coach.
The possible returns of Marcos Alonso and Ferran Torres should be a boost for the blaugranes, with Xavi confident both will be fit enough to be named in the squad on Sunday morning before the squad leaves for Madrid.
On loan Atlético Madrid forward João Félix should also be on the list for a return to the Cívitas Metropolitano, his first since signing on loan for Barça last summer. "He likes firey atmospheres to show his worth. João has a strong personality, he is not afraid and he really wants to show what he can do and his character. He has all he needs for a great performance, just like the one from earlier in the season - he's super motivated," said Xavi of his Portuguese striker.
The game on Sunday will also be a chance for former blaugranes Antoine Griezmann and Memphis Depay to face their former clubs. For Xavi, the Frenchman is "a playmaker who plays as a striker or just off," and the Dutchman is "capable of winning when he is inspired and up for it."
On the Champions League tie with PSG, Xavi was considered in his replies: "It's a really tough tie against one of the most difficult sides we could have met. I know Luis Enrique really well and he is a brilliant coach. Despite history saying we have won more than they have, I would make PSG favourites due to what they have spent and we have spent, but desire to dream we will not lack."