After the defeat in the Clasico, Barcelona will be looking to show a reaction in San Sebastian on Saturday evening. Xavi commented on Ilkay Gündogan’s criticism ahead of the game and is delighted to have an important player back
The Clasico between Barcelona and Real Madrid is, of course, always a prestigious match. It was therefore annoying for the Catalans that they lost their home game against their rivals 2-1 last Saturday.
Ilkay Gündogan had some strong words to say after the game. The captain of the German national team, who moved to Barcelona from Manchester City in the summer, said he would have liked “more anger” in the dressing room and explained his criticism a few days later.
Xavi was also asked about the midfielder’s words at the press conference ahead of Saturday evening’s game. The coach took it quite calmly and played it down: “He expressed the anger we all had inside us, nothing else. If you look at Bayern’s defeat, Thomas Müller also came and criticized. Everything is fine with us in the changing room, there was no controversy.”
The former midfielder continued: “We didn’t see Ilkay’s words as controversial, we agree with what he said. We lost the Clasico because of our mistakes. We’re all angry, I can assure you of that. There is no further discussion, the subject is closed. “
Pedri has only played two league games
The Catalans’ coach then moved on to a positive topic, as midfield talent Pedri is able to play again. The Spaniard has only played two league games this season and has been absent since August 20 with a long-term muscle injury in his right thigh. “He’s available and at 100 percent. He looks ready to me and that’s great news for the team,” said a delighted Xavi.
Barcelona will be looking to tackle the Clasico frustration with Pedri on Saturday. The gap to leaders Real is currently four points. “It’s only four points and there are still a lot of games to play. We have to keep working hard”, said Xavi, remaining calm about the situation in the table.
