“It is easier to play in Girona than in Barcelona, we have seen that in some footballers” – Xavi Hernandez
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez told the press that playing for Barcelona and Girona were different challenges ahead of their clash on Saturday, with a thin veil separating him from clearly indicating why the signing of Oriol Romeu It was not as successful as they could have hoped for this season.
With Eric Garcia and Pablo Torre on loan to Montilivi, and Romeo signed Barcelona from Girona last summer, Xavi explained that the difference in demands had been clear to see late.
“The context changes in Barça. It is not the same to play for Girona as for Barça. It is easier to play for Girona than for Barça. This is in evidence and we have seen it in some footballers. At Girona you play more calmly. When you talk to Eric, he tells you that he plays more freely than in a big club like Barça.
Tap on Romeo specifically, Xavi denied that the pressure had reached the 32-year-old, who started his first seven games of the season, but has since been used sparingly.
“I don't think it was that. He started well. Then he had some physical problems and we had to protect him throughout the season. And then, it's about performance. Here the competition is fierce, I opted for other players and It's true that he played less than I expected.
Xavi: “Fermín is a great discovery, we saw him in 2-3 training sessions. We liked him, he is dynamic. He is a Barça player.”
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) May 3, 2024
It is widely believed that Romeo will be on his way to Barcelona this summer, and Girona have also made it clear that they would bring him back if a deal was possible. Meanwhile Xavi and Michel Sanchez both confirmed that Eric Garcia would be on the way back to the coast in the summer. As Barcelona have been heavily linked with Girona captain Aleix Garcia, however, Xavi's words undoubtedly indicate they are less likely to be pursued.
