Oriol Romeu Takes Rest Ahead of Barcelona vs. Granada Clash; Xavi Praises His Dedication

Oriol Romeu was absent from the latest training session leading up to FC Barcelona’s match against Granada CF. The Catalan midfielder has been dealing with physical discomfort for several weeks. As explained by Xavi Hernandez in a press conference, Romeu will take a break on Sunday to recover and be available for Barcelona’s visit to Celta de Vigo next Saturday, February 17.

Xavi commended Romeu’s commitment, stating, “His dedication is moving. He has been playing with discomfort for many games. Another player might have stopped and wouldn’t have that attitude, but he has sacrificed himself. He has been putting the team’s interests above his own for many months. He will rest tomorrow, but he should be in Vigo, in principle,” Xavi emphasized during his media briefing. He also reiterated that his decision to step down from the Barcelona bench is final.

In the absence of Romeu in the holding midfielder role, Xavi expressed satisfaction with Andreas Christensen’s performance against Alavés. The coach hinted at the likelihood of Christensen reprising the positional midfield role: “He is a very valid option for us. A versatile player who can play in various positions.”

Regarding other Barcelona players in the infirmary, Xavi disclosed that Marc-André ter Stegen and Raphinha will likely be medically cleared in the coming hours. However, Sergi Roberto, who did not train with his teammates on Saturday, faces challenges: “If he doesn’t make it, we hope he’ll be available next week.” Xavi reiterated his stance on Roberto’s future, recommending the club to extend his contract: “I don’t know what will happen; I’ve already said that I have recommended his continuity.”