Could Atlético’s visit be a turning point or a step forward?
Tomorrow is a final and we know the difficulty, they are the champions and they have worked with the same coach for a decade. We play at home after a month and a half and we want to show that we can compete. They are three fundamental points, vital against a direct rival. It’s a six-point game because we would beat them if we win.
What should Dembélé’s role be?
We have not found a way out due to circumstances and he is part of the squad and the club. We have met and we have decided that if before we had to find a way out, now we cannot shoot ourselves in the foot. It has been a good professional on the list and off and I will use it. one more of the team
Has the strategy been the right one?
Circumstances have changed. I understand all the positions, of the club, the player and the fans. We have to think about ourselves and be selfish. You can help us. What does it matter if we are wrong. We all decide together. It is a club decision because we are a family.
Doesn’t the club lose authority with this decision?
Otherwise. I understand the fans if they are hurt, but we have to close ranks for the good of the team. He is training well.
How are Adama and Aubameyang?
The two have trained normally. Adama is in a better physical moment. We will decide tomorrow, but both are available.
How did you experience the market closing?
The club did a great job at all levels. Mateu, Jordi, Rafa… He has signed up well and we are reinforced. I am happy.
Why isn’t Dani Alves on the Europa League list?
I feel bad about this decision. It was very difficult. It was because of the position, we believe that position is more covered. I have been unfair to him, as I would have been to anyone else. It has touched him.
Is Barça faster now?
Not only that. Players with more understanding of the game. With this we gain a lot because we gain more threat and more one on one. We have more competitiveness.
Does Araújo have to renew?
Yes, it is a priority. It is a reality and it gives us a lot. A very loved person in the locker room. It is a priority operation.
Has your opinion of Aubameyang changed?
You can help us. I didn’t say it didn’t work. I said that there were others more complete like Luis Suárez. He can give us a lot of depth, he has a goal, he’s fast… we have to take advantage of him.
What did Laporta tell you about Dembélé?
We are all in the same boat. We decided it among all, we are a team. Since we decided a month ago, we decided now. Tomorrow we play a lot.
Can Ousmane be trusted, do you think he will set foot?
He is a club player and his commitment is clear. His commitment is impeccable.
Has it been an awkward season?
I am conciliatory and try to reach the best solution. We do not reach it, because we have to look for a new one. It’s part of being a coach.
Is the Europa League an opportunity?
Of course, to win it and enter the Champions League. We have not been at the level and now we are in the Europa League, I want to win it.
Can we talk about a new Barça?
I am excited. I think we will improve, the training sessions are good. We’ll see. Tomorrow is a very clear litmus test.
How are Abde and Jutglà with the signings?
We will try to make them two more options for what they have helped us and there is a lot of competition. If they don’t play with us they have to play with the reserve team.
Is the Club World Cup the main title there is?
It is not the main objective, it is more opportunity for the South Americans. When you win the Champions League, you want to win it.
Is LaLiga possible?
At the moment I want to enter the Champions League and then I don’t rule anything out knowing the difficulty. We are 15 points down with one game in hand. We have to be realists.
Will Alba continue to play it all?
Balde is injured, but there are more options. Jordan is important. It’s fundamental.
Is this Barça close to what you imagined?
We have reinforced ourselves well and let’s see how far we get. There is a good atmosphere and a good group. Four months left.
How should we receive Luis Suárez?
I think he deserves a standing ovation. The best modern Barça center forward with Etoo. He has been a great companion. You have to receive him with honor. The pity is that you couldn’t leave with a great tribute because of COVID.
Does it bother you that there are players who have not given up their salary?
There is everything. The positive point is that everyone wants to come. You have to think about the club. The circumstances are adverse and gestures like Ferran, Dani, Adama or Alves are very worthy.
What can Adama and Aubameyang bring to the table?
The maturity. They are at a very good age. They are at the best age and have a Premier rhythm. Two great signings.