“Take a step forward”

After two consecutive seasons experiencing eliminations in the group stage of the Champions League, the coach Xavi Hernandez stated this Monday, 18, that he sees the team ready to take another step. The Spaniard’s statement was made at a press conference held on the eve of his debut in the competition.

“It’s a joy to be in this competition again. It’s time to take a step forward. Last year we did well in local competitions, but we have to take a step forward. It’s the perfect setting. We arrived at a good time. It’s important to know that it’s the highest competition at European level and the players are very motivated, but we also can’t be obsessed“, said coach Xavi.

With a calmer group than in recent editions, the commander also celebrated the fact that this year’s draw had been calmer for the club in theory. Despite this, Xavi guarantees that the below-expected campaigns did not cause Barça to “lose continental prestige”.

“Last year we were very unlucky in the draw. This one seems more accessible, but tomorrow we play against the Belgian league champion. I don’t have that feeling (loss of prestige). When I went to Bayern’s, Inter’s pitch… I noticed respect. We have to earn it, of course“, added the coach.

In addition to Barcelona, Harbor, Shakhtar It is Royal Antwerp, their debut opponent, are part of group H of the 2023/24 Champions League. As usual, the two best placed among the four go through to the round of 16, while the third goes to the Europa League and the bottom team says goodbye to European competitions for the season.