Xavi motivated for Confederations Cup

Xavi Hernandez sees many reasons why Spain want to win the Confederations Cup, as he reflects on how he hopes the team will play.

La Roja are preparing for Sunday’s opening Group B match against Uruguay in the knowledge that they have never won this competition.

“We are very excited and have the thorn of having not won in 2009,” commented Xavi to reporters in his Press conference.

“Maybe for my age this is my last Confederations Cup, too.

“For fans of football, Brazil has a history in world football. They are fancied coming into this tournament.

“Playing here is an added bonus. We are going to try and win it.”

The Barcelona midfielder reflected on what to expect in the tournament and from opening opponents Uruguay.

“Luis Suarez is a decisive player and one that makes the difference. He is a nuisance to the defence just as Diego Forlan and Edinson Cavani are. They have a great team.

“We are without Xabi Alonso? The system does not change, but only the players starting in the XI. Xabi gives great balance and is a significant absence.

“But whoever we play the philosophy remains the same. We want to be protagonists, keep the ball and play on the attack.

“Against Uruguay and any team we must be very dynamic, have quick ball movement and open up the field.

“We are concerned about the condition of the pitch. We hope that it is watered, too, because that will favour is. We will look out on this.”

Iker Casillas is in the squad and in contention to start, despite having not played for Real Madrid since January.

“The importance Iker Casillas in the team is seen. He is the captain and I see him happy, training hard and his importance to the team is high.”

Tags Confederations Cup Spain Uruguay Xavi
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