Barcelona manager Xavi was asked whether the El Clasico gets him ‘horny’ as his team prepares to face Real Madrid at the Bernabeu.
Barcelona has had a difficult week, with their 3-3 draw with Inter Milan effectively dropping them from the Champions League to the Europa League. Of course, it might have been much worse for the Spanish giants if Kristjan Asllani had made a pass instead of taking a shot in injury time on Wednesday night.
What has Xavi said before the El Clasico?
They now face their toughest test in the season when they face Real Madrid at the Bernabeu on Sunday, with Carlo Ancelotti’s side still to lose in La Liga.
The two teams have similar records thus far, but in addition to playing away from home, Xavi’s side must overcome the Drake curse, since their clothes for the match are sponsored by the Canadian rapper.
Regardless of the circumstances, the Clasico is always an intriguing possibility, even if it occasionally fails to deliver, but not so ‘exciting’ that it turns the Barcelona manager on.
During his pre-match press conference, the former midfielder was asked whether the game got him stirred up or horny. He replied, “I don’t know if it makes me horny, I don’t know if that’s the word”.
“But I like to play against Real Madrid. I’m competitive. I’d like to still be a footballer to play in these types of matches”.
“Like the day against Inter. It’s in these games where you stand up and also as a coach. It’s spectacular to play a game like this. Motivation is at its highest, it’s an opportunity to extend the leader in the competition”.
Despite the fact that his team is almost probably out of the Champions League, Xavi pleaded for patience with his intentions, saying, “It’s vital for us and for Real Madrid. Let’s see who comes out on top. But the project is still under construction”.
“The slump in the Champions League annoys us, but we’re on the right track”. “We’re in a great situation in La Liga. In Europe the outlook isn’t good, but the project is under construction and it can’t be destroyed now”.
FC Barcelona’s season so far
Xavi’s team drew their first game of the season against Rayo Vallecano, but have subsequently won seven consecutive games. With 22 points entering into the Clasico, they are already five points clear of third-placed Athletic Club.
Last season, Barcelona defeated their fierce rivals 4-0 on the road, but the 13-time Champions League champions won in the Nou Camp and in the Spanish Super Cup semi-final.
