Eric Garcia He spoke to the media prior to the Europa League quarter-final second leg against Eintracht. These were his evaluations after being protagonist in the two previous games, in which he was at a good level but cleared the center in Knauff’s goal in Frankfurt and committed a penalty. These were his evaluations.
How are you personally and what should you do tomorrow?
“I am happy with the dynamics in which the team is coming. In the first leg it was difficult for us in the first half. We have already talked about what we have to do tomorrow and we want to play and for the field to be filled so that you can enjoy as No matter how many Eintracht fans come, ours will make themselves heard”.
What Eintracht expect?
“They will do more of the same. The plan worked well for them. We have solutions if they plan it like in the first leg or close more like Galatasaray.”
How do you see Piqué?
“Today he trained with the team. I hope he can play because it goes without saying what he gives to the team. He is one of the best central defenders in history and what he contributes, on and off the pitch, is important”.
Ansu says that they work more than before. What is the biggest change with Xavi?
“The union he has made in the team. He explained his ideas to us from the beginning and the fruits are showing. There are games in which it is more difficult for us but he gives us solutions and that we score in the 90th as he makes us see the other day this union.”
Do you have the feeling that your rivals find you around the corner and get to know you better?
“In the end, the rivals are adapting to us. They close well inside, they fall back more than before but that speaks well of us, that we are doing well. I don’t think it’s relaxation. What we have to do is keep looking solutions”.
What does it mean to grow up alongside Piqué, would you like it to go to the World Cup?
“I have been a Barça fan and playing with him is a privilege for me because of the hierarchy and the leadership he has. About the National Team, you will have to ask him”.
What is Xavi giving you on an individual level?
“Above all, a lot of freedom when it comes to getting the ball out. Both Pep and him are similar. Xavi advises you and that’s important for a player. I think Xavi is showing and we’ve only had four or five months. There’s a hopeful future “.
Do they feel compelled to qualify?
“Let’s see. For representing the club we represent, it’s clear that yes. Representing this club means winning every game. This season we haven’t had the results we expected in stretches but now we’re having good results. I hope the fans are with us and fill the field because they have been through thick and thin”.
Are the European rivals physically better than Barça?
“There are teams that try to take the ball away from us and that didn’t happen before. Of course they have a high physical level but I don’t think that’s why. What you have to do is press up.”
What does Araújo give Barça?
“Ronald has been proving the central defender he is for a year and a half now. He is a beast, a fast animal. For Barça he is the perfect central defender. I hope he renews because he wins duels behind his back because of the speed he has”.
Do you see yourself as a coach?
“Man. I would like to play a few more years… (laughs). I have been lucky to have worked with great coaches.”
For you, who is the favorite for the Champions League?
“I won’t get wet. I guess the best will win because that’s what they’re there for.”
Do you see yourself in a leading role next season?
“I train and fight every day to earn a place. If competition comes, the better. But I focus on myself.”