Sergi Roberto has expressed his joy at playing in his ‘natural position’ under Ernesto Valverde and wants to continue to be ‘an important player’ for Barcelona.
The 25-year-old was reported to be growing increasingly frustrated at the Camp Nou having played the 2016/17 primarily as a right full-back despite being naturally a central midfielder.
However, the Barca youth product started in the Bernabeu during the Spanish Super Cup defeat in midfield and was retained for the game against Real Betis, where he scored the second goal of the game.
“The Coach starting me at the Bernabeu gave me a lot of confidence so to score on the opening day is a big boost,” Roberto is quoted as saying by Marca.
“I want to continue being an important player after not starting as much during pre-season, it is crucial that I start playing in more official first-team matches.
“I feel comfortable playing in my normal position and I am happy now as I was in Madrid (during the Spanish Super Cup) as this is more natural for me.
“We knew Betis would want to come out and play from the back but we were able to steal a lot of possession high up the pitch and score twice.
“We want to dedicate this victory to the victims of the attacks in Barcelona and Cambrils.”
