Barcelona pre-Napoli Champions League press conference: what Xavi and Frenkie de Jong said

Xavi Hernández and Frenkie de Jong had a lot to say ahead of Barcelona’s crunch tie in the Champions League against Italian champions Napoli.

FC Barcelona take on Napoli in the Round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday 21 February (KO 3 p.m. ET/ noon PT.).

Ahead of the game, both Xavi and Frenkie de Jong sat down in front of the press to speak about the tie as well as the complicated situation in which the club find themselves.

First, it was the turn of the Dutch midfielder, who quickly made everyone present aware that he was not in the mood for fun and games...

His future at the club: I am irritated and angry with what the press writes in general, many things come out that are lies. Some of you make things up and you are not ashamed.

His angry mood: You are talking a lot about my contract, my salary, and there are a lot of lies and smoke. They say I’m getting paid €40 million. It’s far from what I really earn. They have invented a story. I’m happy at Barça. I hope I can continue for many years.

Is the club considering selling him: I hope not. I know there are many things that are made up. There are many things that are not true with players, coaches.... I have the feeling that it’s not going to change. You are making things up...

How he feels mentally: I’m doing great. The press says that if I don’t have the level, it doesn’t matter. You have to change the lies.

On playing Napoli: Napoli have a team with players of the highest level. There are players of great quality. They are in the last 16 of the Champions League. The match will be difficult.

Kvaratskhelia: He is a top-level player who makes a difference in the team and must be taken into account for tomorrow.

Preparation for the match: Champions League matches