Sergi Roberto and Rafinha say preseason is all about getting in shape

ARLINGTON, Texas — One day before FC Barcelona faces AS Roma in the International Champions Cup, a pair of Barça players, Sergi Roberto and Rafinha, were chosen to appear at the team's pre-game press conference. Tuesday's game at AT&T Stadium outside Dallas is Barça's second during this summer's United States Tour, and it will be the first time the two clubs face each other since last spring, when they met in the UEFA Champions League. They were asked a wide variety of questions, but for the most part, the two players coincided on one basic point: they are focused on one thing—getting in shape.

Here are the highlights of what they had to say.

Sergi Roberto

On where he wants to play this season:

“I can play fullback, like in recent seasons, or also in the midfield. I have fun whenever I’m out there playing, regardless of which position.”

On how the Barça B players are doing this preseason:

“It reminds me of when I was younger. They are putting in a lot of good work in training.”

On Luis Enrique becoming the new Spain national team coach:

“Luis Enrique was very important in my career. He gave me the chance to play at Barça B.”

Rafinha

On whether he’ll stay or leave:

“The truth is I’m not paying any attention to that. I have representatives that worry about it.”

“I’m focused on getting ready for games and getting in the best shape possible.”

On whether he’d like to see his brother Thiago return to Barça:

“I’d like to see him back at Barça because I think he fits in with the the team’s style.”