By Jude Summerfield
Xavi became lyrical for the incredible performance of young midfield star Gavi in Sunday’s Supercopa de Espana final against Real Madrid,
Gavi became the youngest ever player to score in the Spanish Super Cup by netting against Madrid with the opener and netting two more for Robert Lewandowski and Pedri as Barça cruised to a 3-1 win.
It is Barça’s first trophy under coach Xavi and the first since the departure of Lionel Messi, and Xavi praised the young midfielder after the game.
“He’s a guy who excites everyone,” Xavi said at a press conference. “When you see him compete like that … the heart, soul and character that he plays with is infectious to the rest of the team.
“He’s also a born leader, which comes naturally to him at 18. He’s spectacular. I’ve said that many times, but I never get tired of praising him. He has no limits, so don’t slow him down.”
Real Madrid 1-3 Barcelona: Player ratings – Spanish Super Cup
Xavi added: “We have a really good generation of players and you can see the hunger they have for trophies. I hope this is a game changer as you [the journalist asking] say, but this does not stop. On Thursday we have the Copa; next weekend The League.
“I’m happy for the players though. They’ve received a lot of criticism, in many cases unfair, and today they were released. It’s a huge moral boost and we can work more calmly.
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“It’s also important for the fans. This club has seen everything in recent years: financial problems, Leo’s departure [Messi] it was big. I hope this is the first trophy of many.”
Boat they will look to improve on their three-point lead at the top of La Liga when they return to Spain from Saudi Arabia. They will face AD Ceuta in the next round of the Copa del Rey and face Manchester United in the Europa League play-offs for a place in the round of 16 after exiting the Champions League.
This article was originally posted on 90min.com as Xavi praises the “born leader” after his Supercopa de Espana triumph.
