Xavi: Barcelona are not the favourites to win LaLiga, we are one of the candidates

Xavi Hernandez has assessed his team's progress ahead of the clash against Sevilla, which takes place this Sunday at Camp Nou.

He admitted that Barcelona are on great form although he does not consider his side as favourites for the title, despite the fact that they are five points clear at the top of the table.

Match against Sevilla

"We have a complicated opponent in front of us, despite the situation in the standings," he said.

"Sampaoli is a great coach who works very well in defence, he does things very well with high pressing. They are a rebellious team, with experienced players.

"We need the fans. We're in good shape, but we have to pass the test with flying colours".

Tactical formation

"We are comfortable with any system. Only the individual changes or the midfield has more responsibility," he said.

"We are doing the same as last year, but this season we have better players, more variants... but they are not systems, it depends on the players.

"With the four midfielders, who are usually Pedri, Gavi, Busquets and Frenkie, and they lose the least amount of balls, it could be that the team is comfortable."

League situation

"The grades are given at the end of the season. We're doing well, in a good moment," he said.

"We've played some good games and others not so good. It happens all the time, when I was playing it also happened.

"In general, I'm very satisfied and happy with the way we're going in LaLiga, leaders, five points ahead of Real Madrid, we've just won a title... we have to give continuity to the good form."

State of mind

"I talk to the players, I tell them that we have won a title, but we mustn't lower our arms, there are still many more to compete for," Xavi said.

"The atmosphere is very good, one of the best I've experienced in my career. And this is key. We are on the right track."

Real Madrid and being favourites

"I don't feel like [we are] favourites, I feel like a candidate to win [LaLiga]," he said.

"We are competing with the reigning LaLiga and Champions League champions. We will fight for the league until the last or penultimate Matchday.

"I see [Real Madrid] as strong even if they are five points behind."

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