"We know what Liverpool are capable of"

The press conference started with the coach of Barcelona, Ernesto Valverde, talking about the team's approach for the match against Celta: "The intention is to win three more three points, despite coming with a lot physical strain, as we've had two weeks with games and Champions League. We are going to make changes, because it is necessary".

About the Champions League second leg against Liverpool in Anfield, he said: "We have a good result for the return, but the tie is not closed. Because we see Liverpool playing and we know what they are capable of. We saw what they were able to do here.

As for Arthur's physical condition, he explained: "It's true that he's been suffering from some physical problems for a long time. But he's fine for Vigo and we'll see if he participates or not.

On the possible bet of playing Sergi Roberto in the center of the field, Valverde said: "the decision to put him in the center field will depend on how I see the game. He has been trained as a midfielder, it is a habitual zone for him. He has the advantage of being versatile and we can only take advantage of that. Depending on how the opponent plays, it's a solution for us.

Valverde also had time to talk about the retirement of Xavi Hernandez: "I do not know if he is the best in the history of Spain, but one of the best in the history of football for sure. He is one of the best midfielders there have been in recent years. All his passes surpassed the rival or overwhelmed the rival team's play. It's been extraordinary to see him play for so long. Everyone hoped that Xavi could be a coach and he has the profile to be one in the future with Barça".

 

May 3, 2019

With the Champions in mind

Returning to the Champions League subject, Valverde said that Barcelona's style is clear, beyond the fact that the opponent sometimes prevents the team from working as they would like to, after the criticism received by the great 3-0 win over Liverpool.

"Our idea in these three games is to compete at the highest level. There will be players who have not participated as much and who will have minutes in these three games. On Tuesday we have a Cup semi-final and we want to prepare it well, with a competitive eleven to win," he explained about the outstanding appointment.

Questioned about Ter Stegen's season, he commented: "The other day he made a great save, but it's more what he conveys to the team from the goal, that security, that peace of mind. His season is being spectacular.

Player by player

As for the chances of Cillessen playing between now and the end of the season, he commented: "Of course I could use him. Every time there have been opportunities I have used him. We're very happy with him, he's a great goalkeeper and we need great goalkeepers. I understand that his position is very special, that it depends on how the first goalkeeper performs and Marc's performance is has been tremendous. 

Asked about Malcolm's course, he explained: "He's been better, both playing and training, but he hasn't had as many opportunities as others, it's what we demand in Barça. He has adapted well and when he has demonstrated a great level. Let's hope it continues like this".

As for the calendar that is ahead for a Barça that has already won the League, without much more at stake in the national competition, he said forceful: "To the teams that play are playing for a specific objective, they can take care of their game, and we will go to Vigo to compete. Something similar happened on the last day of the Champions League and, against Tottenham, we competed".

Valverde also had time to talk about Aleñá's, to end his press conference: "I think he's doing well. Last year he showed a lot of things, I think he's good, he is prepared, he takes important steps, although there is a lot of competition. We see him progress and from the defensive point he is advancing, offensively he has confidence".