Sergi Roberto has distanced himself from comparisons with Thiago Alcantara, whilst enthused at the prospect of working at Barcelona under Gerardo Martino.
In the wake of Thiago’s sale to Bayern Munich, Barca are speculated as handing Sergi Roberto a more prominent role in first team affairs next term.
However, in contemplating this prospect, the 21-year-old has looked to distance himself from any likely comparisons with his midfield predecessor.
“There should be no comparison with Thiago,” commented Sergi Roberto to reporters this week from Barca’s training preparations in Oslo, ahead of Saturday’s friendly with Valerenga.
“We are different players, each with our own qualities.
“I want to work to help the team and the more minutes I manage the better.
“Thiago’s departure helps me? The fewer players in your position, the more chances you get to play.
“But it is too bad that Thiago has gone because he is a very good player.
“I wish him luck with Bayern and personally, I shall see how many minutes I manage this season.”
The midfielder will be playing this season under Gerardo Martino, after the Argentine was brought in as a late replacement for Tito Vilanova.
“We all consider him to be the ideal Coach for us because it is him that the club have chosen, and so he must be.
“He did a good job with Paraguay and Newell’s Old Boys. He trusts in youth. Moreover, his teams treat the ball well. Therefore I believe that he is the ideal Coach for us.
“We were surprised by the news of Tito. We have to put everything behind us and think about this season.
“Of course, from here, I want to give him much encouragement and hope that he recovers. Whatever we do this year, it will also be for him.”
