Iniesta: Sevilla stronger than ever

Andres Iniesta has warned Barcelona that Sevilla are stronger than ever after their Europa League exploits ahead of Sunday’s Copa del Rey final.

Sevilla defeated Liverpool 3-1 on Thursday to lift Europe’s secondary trophy for a third successive season, and Iniesta urged Barca to expect a “dangerous” Nervionenses take to the Vicente Calderon, despite the latter having only rested for three days.

“We know the opponents we’re facing. They’re a team who make things difficult. They have many features and very good players,” the midfielder said at a Press conference.

“The Coach gives identity to the team. He knows how to play and what to convey to the players. I expect a tough final, so we’ll need a complete performance to win.

“I see even them more dangerous than before. They’ve won a trophy and have good sensations. They’re more dangerous now, regardless of how tired they may be.

“Assuming that each scenario is different, I see the team well and feeling good. We want to be able to lift this trophy and add the cup to the League we’ve won.

“We’re facing the match with the utmost enthusiasm of winning this trophy, and we hope to continue expanding on everything we’ve done in the last few years.

“It’s much better to fight for a major trophy when you arrive on the back of positivity. Having fulfilled the objective of the League, playing the cup is easier. It’s important to win this trophy.

“We’re all under pressure to win. I’ve never known a final where Barca weren’t obliged to win. We’ve fought for trophies every season.

“The obligation to win is almost permanent. Taking our trajectory in this competition into account, we’re capable of beating Sevilla, knowing that we respect them a lot.

“Winning La Liga and the Copa del Rey would make a very good season. We’ve been spoiled [by winning so many trophies] in recent years, but obviously winning the double has huge value.

“Sevilla have also become used to playing in many finals and winning them. It’s a game with many attractions. We hope to add a cup [to our haul].”

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