Barcelona coach expects to be able to field Xavi in Sevilla clash
Barcelona head coach Pep Guardiola believes that he will be able to call on the talents of Xavi Hernandez when he lines his side up to take on Sevilla at the Camp Nou on Saturday, 30 October.
The 2010 FIFA World Cup winner has been absent for the La Liga champions’ last two matches — victories over Real Zaragoza and Ceuta in the league and Copa del Rey respectively — as a result of his tendonitis which is affecting his ability to train and play.
However, the 30-year-old successfully came though a training session and is expected to feature against Sevilla.
Guardiola told reporters that: “Xavi is OK. But until he plays 80 or 90 minutes, we will not be able to see how the tendon responds.”
Barca are currently third in the table with 19 points, one fewer than leaders Real Madrid. However, if they are to maintain the pace in the defence of their title, they will have to overcome tough opponents in the form of Sevilla, who have 14 points from eight
games.
'Sevilla have grat players'
Guardiola added that: “We know Sevilla very well and we know coach Gregorio Manzano very well too. The job he is doing is not too different to the one he did at Mallorca. It will be a very difficult match. They have great players. The match tomorrow will
be a great game and we are keen to play.”
The Barca coach also commented on proposals to hold the El Clasico match between his side and Madrid on a Monday, saying that no matter when the game is held, one club will be upset by the scheduling.
He said that: “No matter what you think of Barcelona, or what you think of Real Madrid, no matter what happens, not everyone will be happy. The match will be no less glamorous if it is held on a Monday.”
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