The Barcelona team must attempt to defeat Bayern Munich this week, according to coach Xavi Hernandez, even if their Champions League fate is already decided by kickoff. If Inter Milan defeats Czech minnows Viktoria Plzen at home before playing Bayern on Wednesday, the Catalans may be eliminated. In the locker room, we’ll all watch (the game) together on TV, stated Xavi. “We have to demonstrate that we can compete, regardless of what happened in Milan.
“We will go out with the same intensity we had against Villarreal and Athletic Bilbao to prove we can compete with them. We have to be equal to them. Barcelona had only won one of their first four Champions League games, and despite putting up a strong effort and creating several chances, they were defeated 2-0 in Munich in September.
In their last five meetings, the German champions have defeated Barcelona on each occasion, including two consecutive 3-0 victories last season in the group stage and an 8-2 victory in Lisbon.
After making significant summer purchases, such as acquiring Bayern Munich striker Robert Lewandowski, Barcelona had hoped to be able to show they could compete for the Champions League.
In the event that Inter triumphed and Barcelona was eliminated, Xavi declared he would not alter the starting lineup to rest important players.
He declared, “I’ve already chosen the team.” It won’t be affected by what occurs in Milan; it will only change if there is an injury or other issue.
Last season, Barcelona was eliminated in the group stage and relegated to the Europa League, where they were defeated by eventual champion Eintracht Frankfurt in the quarterfinals. We’ll fight like lions and strive to win it if we ultimately find ourselves in the Europa League, Xavi added.
I am always optimistic, but when something is beyond my control, you aren’t. It makes sense and is human.
