Xavi & Vermaelen to start vs Depor

Luis Enrique has confirmed that Xavi Hernandez and Thomas Vermaelen will start Barcelona’s final League game of the season against Deportivo La Coruna.

The 35-year-old will be given the chance to bid the Camp Nou faithful farewell on Sunday after announcing his decision to join Al Sadd this summer, while the defender is set to make his Barca bow, eight months since arriving from Arsenal.

“Yes,” was the Coach’s response to whether the duo would feature from the outset against Depor at a Press conference.

“This game should serve as a reinforcement to the finals we have left.

“We’ll approach them in the most professional way possible. We’re aware that there’s a final on the horizon, but we have a match before that.

“I have no doubt that the team will be at a good level [against Depor].

“[Xavi] made his decision based on how he felt. For me, he was good enough to spend one more season at Barca, but it’s up to him.

“It was great to have him here this season and Qatar will be a great experience for him and his family

“Cup finals are very special. The atmosphere is wonderful, with the stadium divided in half for each set of fans. I remember Juventus having very noisy supporters.

“[On reports Dani Alves will announce his departure next week], the two sides still have time to talk it out. I haven’t [yet spoken to Barca’s board about next season].”

Tags Deportivo Luis Enrique Thomas Vermaelen Xavi Hernandez
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