Xavi: It’s a tough game to start the league, we have studied Al-Wakrah well

Al-Sadd head coach Xavi Hernandez is aiming to get off to a good start in the QNB Stars League, when his side take on Al-Wakrah in the opening game of the 2019-20 season on Wednesday.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference on the eve of the game, Xavi said: “We are very happy with our performance in the AFC Champions League and the Sheikh Jassim Cup. The league is a new tournament and Al-Sadd have important targets to meet, as we look to win titles.”

He added: “Al-Wakrah is a very strong team and has excellent players, both local and foreign. I know the Al-Wakrah coach well; he has an offensive style similar to Al-Sadd’s. We must continue working and be ready to give our best.”

“We are going to play at our home stadium. We have studied Al-Wakrah well and we hope there won’t be any surprises. The start is very important in the league.”

Xavi also pointed out that all the teams have improved this season, considering the new signings and pre-season preparations.

He further said: “My philosophy, which I learned while playing for Barcelona and Spain, is to have possession of the ball. The players are applying it and I hope they continue to learn.”

As for the constant pressure on Al-Sadd, Xavi remarked: “Pressure brings forth championships. This is what happened in the previous season, when we won the league. I am happy to coach this group of players. I am a positive man and I know that pressure will help us to win titles, and we’re training hard to achieve that.”

Asked about the absence of suspended striker Baghdad Bounedjah, the coach said: “Baghdad is an unbelieveable player in terms of performance, and always makes the difference in attack. There are many other excellent players in the team who can create opportunities and we don’t just depend on one player.”

Finally, he concluded by saying: “I feel satisfied with the team’s performance in attack and we will continue working on it. Baghdad won’t play (due to suspension), and Nam Tae-hee will also be unavailable due to a muscle injury.”