In a press conference ahead of the match against Las Palmas, Barcelona’s coach, Xavi Hernandez, indicated that the club considers the winter transfer market closed with the arrival of Vitor Roque.
Xavi expressed a preference for not divulging any more names of potential reinforcements for the future, emphasizing the need to focus on the existing squad to achieve excellence.
When asked about the possibility of signings like Haaland or Mbappe, Xavi stated, “We’re not thinking about this type of signing, unfortunately. I’ll stick with the ones I have; we have to reach excellence.”
Regarding Vitor Roque, who has yet to be registered in La Liga, Xavi praised the young player, describing him as “very young” and expressing confidence in his readiness to play. Xavi highlighted Roque’s professionalism, keenness, and seamless integration into the team.
🔊 Xavi: "I ask for titles in 2024, because we are still fighting in four competitions. So I ask for health, happiness, and for the players to have fun… but especially to win." pic.twitter.com/FDVgbRkQMS
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 3, 2024
While confirming interest in Aleix Garcia, Xavi acknowledged the difficulty of bringing in more players, citing ongoing discussions with President Joan Laporta and Deco. Xavi expressed optimism about the team’s current form, emphasizing the need for stability and unity in what he anticipates to be a challenging season.
Xavi believes the team possesses all the necessary elements to contend for titles, citing last year’s success. He expressed confidence in the squad’s ability to achieve objectives in the remaining months of the season.
As 2024 begins, Xavi shared his wish list for the year, which includes success, health, happiness for the players, and above all, winning.
Ahead of the Las Palmas match, Xavi highlighted the team’s offensive capabilities but expressed concern about defensive lapses, stating, “I’m more worried about our defending. Even if we score two or three goals, we haven’t won; we’re giving away too much and conceding too many.”