“Hardly loses the ball” - Xavi lauds Barcelona star after win over Valencia
Barcelona boss Xavi has lavished praise on La Masia graduate Fermin Lopez for his performance in the club's 4-2 La Liga win against Valencia on Monday (April 29).
Speaking after the match, Xavi said Lopez is a player for the "present and the future." The 20-year-old scored the first goal of the game in the 22nd minute last night.
"Fermín hardly loses the ball. I personally love him, that is why we have given him the opportunity this season. He is a player for the present and the future," Xavi said (via Barca Blaugranes).
Despite trailing 1-2 at half-time, Barcelona made a comeback in the second half, as Robert Lewandowski scored a hattrick.
Fermin Lopez has been a significant player for the Catalan club this season, having scored eight goals and provided one assist across 38 appearances in all competitions.
Xavi points out that "individual errors" cost Barcelona against Valencia
After the match, Xavi also pointed out that although Barcelona won, "individual errors" cost them dearly in their Monday night fixture against Valencia. As per him, the Blaugrana won the match as they "took advantage of set pieces."
"We were good, but individual errors still cost us dearly. We weren’t good on second balls. We won because we took advantage of set pieces. All of us have to improve next season. That’s very clear," Xavi said.
In the game against Valencia, Robert Lewandowski scored a hattrick, making it 16 goals and eight assists in 30 outings in the La Liga this season. He scored two headers in the second half, followed by a brilliant free kick in the stoppage time, leading the team to a 4-2 win.
The Blaugrana coach also spoke about other players in the squad like Ronald Araujo, Lewandowski, and Marc-Andre Ter Stegen.
Xavi said he is happy with the way Lewandowski trains and that the 35-year-old is "an example" for his teammates.
"I‘m not going to talk about things about the future or anyone. I am very happy for Robert for his work and how he trains, he is an example within the locker room. That’s why he scored the hat-trick today." the former Spanish player said.
Speaking of Araujo, Xavi said:
"Araujo and the others are all very young footballers. Everyone still has to learn a lot and situations like today’s are learning experiences. Ronald has also saved us many times on many occasions."
Xavi also praised goalkeeper Marc-Andre Ter Stegen despite the German making a crucial mistake that led to Barcelona conceding a goal in the first half. Xavi said:
"Ter Stegen is a very loved person in the locker room. They are all a family, there is a good atmosphere, everyone wants to contribute and they help each other. He knows that everyone is there for him."