Xavi Hernández recently responded to critics who had labeled Barcelona as the joke of the Champions League. After leading the Catalan side into the quarterfinals for the first time since 2020, Xavi highlighted the significant progress the team has made on a European level. He expressed his frustration at the unfair criticism and pressure that had been placed on the players, emphasizing that the team’s success was well-deserved.
Xavi’s announcement of his departure at the end of the season coincided with Barcelona falling behind in LaLiga and being eliminated from two other competitions. However, despite these setbacks, Xavi remains optimistic about his team’s chances in the Champions League. He believes that Barcelona is playing better than they were last year and commended the players for their dedication and performance, especially in the match against Napoli.
One of the highlights of Barcelona’s recent victory was the standout performance of 17-year-old Pau Cubarsí. Making his Champions League debut, Cubarsí managed to contain the threat of Napoli’s Victor Osimhen while showcasing his exceptional passing ability and composure on the ball. Xavi lauded Cubarsí’s performance, describing him as a calm and composed presence in the backline.
With Barcelona now through to the quarterfinals of the Champions League, Xavi and his team await the draw to see their next opponents. Real Madrid, Manchester City, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bayern Munich are among the teams already through, with the lineup set to be completed by Inter Milan or Atlético Madrid and Borussia Dortmund or PSV Eindhoven. Xavi acknowledged that every potential opponent would pose a challenge, but he encouraged Barcelona fans to savor the moment and appreciate the team’s progress.
Overall, Xavi Hernández’s leadership and Barcelona’s recent success in the Champions League have silenced critics and reaffirmed the team’s place among Europe’s top clubs. The players’ resilience, dedication, and continued improvement under Xavi’s guidance bode well for their future performances in the competition. As Barcelona prepares to face off against formidable opponents in the quarterfinals, the team’s strong form and cohesion will be crucial in their pursuit of Champions League glory.
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