“It makes me angry,” FC Barcelona boss Xavi hates listening to Champions League anthem

FC Barcelona boss Xavi admits that he hates listening to Champions league anthem from home

“It makes me angry,” FC Barcelona boss Xavi hates listening to Champions League anthem

FC Barcelona boss Xavi Hernandez in a press conference

Barcelona legend and current manager Xavi Hernandez has revealed that he hates listening to the UEFA Champions League anthem when his team is not in the competition. The 43-year-old manager will be preparing his side for an intense UEFA Europa League clash against Manchester United today. Though, he believes that this Catalan side deserves a spot in the top-tier European league, i.e., the UCL.

“It still makes me angry to listen to the Champions League anthem from home. For history and greatness, we should be there,” the Barcelona boss exclaimed in a press conference. The Spanish giants are currently top of La Liga but have failed to create the same environment in European football. Xavi’s side, who started their Champions League campaign at the start of the season was dumped down to Europa League football by heavyweights like Inter Milan and Bayern Munich in the group stages.

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“We have to face reality”, the Barcelona manager learned that his side wasn’t good enough for top-flight football just yet. “We are excited about this competition (the Europa League), which has been very beautiful for the teams that have remained. It’s always important, and more so in Europe, since we’re coming off a few seasons without success,” Xavi added.

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The Catalans were unlucky in the group of death where they suffered humiliating defeats against both the European giants. Ridden with defensive injuries, Xavi was unable to sustain Barcelona’s back line while relying on players like Gerard Pique and Eric Garcia at that time. Things have changed for the Blaugrana now, as they have a well-balanced defensive line. Players like Ronald Araujo, Andreas Christensen, Jules Kounde, and Marc Andre Ter Stegen have all been in form and look well-organized for the club’s defence.

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How has Xavi changed FC Barcelona’s mentality?

Xavi with FC Barcelona president Joan Laporte

Life at Camp Nou has been a little dull since Lionel Messi left for Paris Saint Germain last season. After the club legend’s departure, Joan Laporte invited another club legend to take over things at the Catalan capital. FC Barcelona’s consistent run of form has helped the club receive its reputation back in league football. Barcelona is currently the Spanish league leader, cruising eight points further from arch-rivals Real Madrid.

Xavi has imposed a firm and balanced plan for all Barcelona players, promoting the club’s values and the discipline which are required to stay on the top. He has also been influential in the transfer market, alluring top players like Robert Lewandowski, Kounde, Raphinha, and many more to Camp Nou.

The Spaniard would be looking forward to Barcelona’s clash against the Red Devils tonight. Both teams are in good form and will be looking forward to taking the first-leg advantage in Barcelona. Do you think Xavi could finally recover Barcelona’s European dominance this season?

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