Aside from trying to finish in second place, which would ensure a financial boost because of qualifying for the Spanish Super Cup, Barcelona’s campaign is effectively over. They will attempt to finish the season on a high, starting with Monday’s clash against Real Sociedad at the Estadi Olimpic.
Ahead of that fixture, Xavi Hernandez spoke in his pre-match press conference (via MD). The 44-year-old confirmed that he is desperate for Barcelona to finish in second place, and they can re-take the position from Girona with three points against La Real.
“It would be a setback not to achieve it. It’s a vital game to regain this second place, which is vital for us.”
Xavi was also asked about his squad planning for next season, amid strong links with a number of transfer targets.
“I have told the players that our destiny is in our hands, and now the goal is to finish second. I understand that there is talk of departures and transfers, but there is no one transferable now because we are focused on tomorrow’s game.
“I don’t think planning depends on coming second or not. With Deco, it is already consensual. The goal is to do ourselves justice and win all four games.”
The line of questioning in regards to squad planning became too much for Xavi, who snapped back when asked about Ansu Fati’s future at Barcelona.
“Don’t ask me about planning anymore. It will depend on the end of the season, and the situation we are in.”