Barcelona technical director Robert Fernandez compared Xavi Hernandez to Barbara Streisand to illustrate how situations change for everyone.
Xavi left Barca at the end of the season to join Al Sadd and Robert was asked during an appearance on a SER programme how the club can replace the midfielder.
“We have very good players in his position. It’s true that the loss of Xavi is important on a number of levels, but we have players available there,” he said, Marca reports.
“Rafinha is very versatile and played there, but unfortunately can’t play this season due to injury.
“Xavi is like Barbara Streisand, who doesn’t tour Europe. Time passes for everyone.”
Robert was asked to explain his ideas on football and pointed to the influence of Johan Cruyff that permeates Barca.
“My philosophy is that of Barca’s, having the ball,” he began.
“That is the style that has enchanted everyone and it started with Cruyff, and everything has evolved from there. The priority is always to have a good deal of the ball.”
