Xavi Hernandez has stated that Luis Enrique’s decision not to include Real Madrid players in the Spain squad at Euro 2020 has been a direct cause of the criticism that his side have received.
The former Barcelona midfielder spoke at the start of this year’s ‘Campus Xavi’ in Collell, where he also spoke about topics such as Lionel Messi’s contract situation.
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“We are going to see how the situation develops,” Xavi told the Movistar programme ‘#Vamos’.
“I feel that [Messi] is happy at Barcelona. Everything points to him renewing his contract and I believe that he deserves it.
“Barcelona need Leo [Messi] and Leo needs Barcelona and in a few days it will happen. He is looking to be happy and he is happy at Barcelona. I am sure that it will happen.”
Barcelona midfielder Pedri has continued his excellent club form into the European Championship, and Xavi lavished praise on the 18-year-old.
“It surprised me, above all because of his age, as an 18-year-old,” Xavi said.
“He is showing that he is a class apart. He is an intelligent player, with a lot of qualities and vision… He is a talent and you need to look after him.”
He went on to state that he has not been surprised by the criticism that the Spain team have received throughout the tournament.
“It seems to me that what is happening is normal because the environment of Spain is very critical and there is little connection between the press and the team,” Xavi said.
“Therefore it’s more difficult to win trophies with Spain, but we did it.
“It is even more difficult if the coach does not bring players from Real Madrid. Those criticisms are going to come and you have to know how to accept them.”
