Xavi Praises Vitor Roque’s Impact: “He’s Liberated, Needed This Goal”

Xavi Hernandez expressed relief after the match, acknowledging the team’s response against Osasuna amid the tension of a closely contested result and his recent announcement of departure. “My decision was also to seek a reaction, and we reacted well, but we need to improve,” he began.

The coach highlighted the role of the fans in a match where the priority was to secure three points after a week filled with uncertainties. “It was the moment for the players to take a step forward. We are a family, and I had no doubt. The fans have been fantastic, proving that we are all united in the club.”

In this context, Xavi emphasized that it is the players who have the opportunity to turn the situation around and compete for LaLiga and the Champions League. “The players have to navigate this situation. The staff will demand even more. I asked the fans to support the players because they need it.”

Regarding the game, Xavi lamented the team’s lack of control after taking the lead, especially after Osasuna went down to 10 men. “We struggled in the Supercopa and in Pamplona because they are a team that defends very well. We generated chances to win more comfortably. When they were reduced to ten, we lacked composure.”

Vitor Roque, who scored the winning goal, drew special praise from Xavi for his impact on the match. “Goal scorers depend a lot on goals, and he needed it. I think he has liberated himself. You see the happiness when he scored… he had opportunities but hadn’t had the fortune,” Xavi said.

Xavi hopes that Roque continues to grow and becomes increasingly essential. “He’s going to help us a lot; today, he gave us the victory, and it will be very good for him to free himself. He’s a great guy, and we need to take care of him. He always works, goes in-depth, knows his qualities. I think it will be fantastic for him. He’s a player who can make a difference.”