Andrés Iniesta was one of the first players to talk about FC Barcelona’s new manager, Ernesto Valverde. The blaugrana captain explained that “he is manager who is capable of leading Barça, if not, he wouldn’t have been chosen.” He added: “We have to aspire to be the best and next season we will come back full of hope.” Barça’s number ‘8’ then argued that he is convinced “next season can be a good one if we do things right.”
Iniesta spoke about how the team lacked consistency and this meant they didn’t achieve everything they wanted. He emphasised the fact it is “essential to play well as you have to win trophies at Barça.” On the subject of his contract renewal Iniesta recognised the need to be honest with the Club and himself and has concluded he feels “strong, optimistic and motivated to continue performing at the top level for the next few years.” He added: “My desire and goal is to retire at Barça. I have always wanted this ever since I arrived as a twelve-year-old.”
Finally, Iniesta spoke warmly about Ter Stegen’s contract renewal: “It is great news as he has a big future ahead of him and he has been a key part of the team.” Then the captain concluded that “Barça’s keeper has to respond to extreme situations and he is more than capable of continuing to perform at the level which this Club demands from its players.”
