Giráldez Aims for Barcelona with the Same Competitive Edge against Sevilla

Jonatan Giráldez, the coach of FC Barcelona, expressed his desire on Friday for his players to approach the upcoming league match against Sevilla at the Jesús Navas Stadium (18:30 hours) “with the same competitive rhythm” they demonstrated last Wednesday in the quarter-finals of the Copa de la Reina against the same opponent (8-0).

Giráldez expects Barcelona to maintain their consistency, securing victories and displaying great effectiveness: “We have to continue in our stride because, honestly, we are playing very good matches. But we must not take things for granted because we know that Sevilla is a team that last year drew with us in a league match after many consecutive victories,” he said, adding, “we have to deliver another good performance. We’ve had little time to prepare, so have they, but we are aware of the volume of matches we’ve played recently and those coming up next week. We have to showcase our best version again, approach the game with the intention to win and secure three more points.”

Giráldez emphasized the importance of maintaining a competitive rhythm after an 8-0 victory, recognizing that emotionally, the opponent may react differently: “After conceding such a heavy defeat, that’s where the team’s strength is tested. But it’s true that Sevilla, after our 8-0 win in the league, secured eight victories in ten matches, which speaks highly of their capacity and the reaction they had at that moment.”

Reflecting on the potential changes in Sevilla’s approach, Giráldez emphasized the need for Barcelona to adapt and counteract their strengths. He acknowledged Sevilla’s brave playing style, high pressing, and home advantage, urging his players to deliver a perfect performance defensively and offensively. Giráldez sees the players as prepared for the challenge, emphasizing the additional goal of winning the three remaining matches before the international break.