Barcelona’s 5-2 victory over Basel produced several encouraging performances, but two players left a particularly strong impression: Xavi Espart and summer signing Karim Adeyemi.
Espart was handed a starting role in central midfield and looked completely at home, while Adeyemi opened the scoring to register his first goal in a Barcelona shirt.
With the La Liga opener against Elche approaching, both players used the friendly to strengthen their case for further involvement under Hansi Flick.
Espart hopes for Barcelona opportunity
Xavi Espart was one of Barcelona’s standout performers against Basel, continuing the form he showed while playing in central midfield at the European Under-19 Championship.
Speaking to the club’s media after the match, Espart explained why he has adapted so naturally to the position.
“Comfortable because, at the end of the day, I’m used to playing in this position.
“At the European Championship I played in the centre and my teammates alongside me make it quite easy for me – I’m really looking forward to it and trying to enjoy myself.”
The youngster knows that a strong pre-season alone will not guarantee him a place in Barcelona’s first-team plans. Still, he is determined to make the most of every opportunity.
“Since coming back from the European Championship, I’ve tried to give 100 per cent here and show that I belong here and what I’m capable of.
Xavi Espart started in midfield against Basel. (Photo by Timothy Rogers/Getty Images)
“For now, I’m happy, but football is a day-to-day game and I’ll keep giving 100 per cent to stay here. I hope I can play for Elche, but you never know in football.
“I’m taking it one match at a time and one training session at a time; I prefer to think that way and always give 100 per cent.”
Espart also showed that he understands the challenge facing any young player trying to establish himself at Barcelona.
“It’s very difficult to make it here, but what’s really tough is staying here because of the high standards set by these players.
“At the end of the day, this is Barça, the best team in the world, and the demands are there every single day.
“You can never let your guard down. It’s about approaching every day with enthusiasm and giving it your all.”
Karim Adeyemi sends clear message
Karim Adeyemi was another player who had plenty to celebrate after the win over Basel.
The German forward opened the scoring and produced an impressive display, making his first goal for Barcelona an important personal moment during pre-season.
Karim Adeyemi opened the scoring for Barcelona. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
Adeyemi has only recently begun his Barcelona journey, but the 24-year-old already appears to be enjoying life under Hansi Flick.
“I feel great. I think it was a good match. We’re still settling in. I love being here and I’m already keen for more. It’s a dream come true.
“I’m enjoying every day and I’m learning a lot from the team and trying to improve every day. It’s incredible to be in a city like this and at such a big club.”
The German also admitted that the demands of playing for Barcelona have been higher than he expected.
“This is the biggest club in the world and every day I push myself to the limit; I try to learn and give my best on the pitch, and I think it’s harder than I expected.”
Despite the challenge, Adeyemi is confident that Barcelona are heading into the new season in good shape.
“Of course we’re ready; we’ve got some very good players – everyone can see that. Everyone can play and everyone’s ready.
“On Wednesday we’ll put in a good performance, and the next time we’ll do even better,” he concluded.
Source: Mundo Deportivo