The Barcelona coach is looking forward to Wednesday's challenge in Portugal

Xavi Hernández stated that Wednesday's match between Porto and Barcelona (21:00 CET) is "the ideal scenario" for "the challenge of returning to compete in the Champions League."

After two years of disappointments and the 5-0 'appetizer' against Antwerp in Montjuïc, the time of truth has arrived at the home of a formidable opponent. He approaches it with enthusiasm and, above all, with the objective of leaving behind what he described as 'the ghosts of the Champions League.'

"I believe that, in general, we need to reflect and leave [the past] behind," he said. "It seems like we see ghosts with the Champions League, but there are players here who have won it, like Gündogan and Cancelo. We need to think positively; it's a new year, a different squad with more experience, and we have taken a step forward in our style of play. We need to compete."

Xavi is not affected by 'this burden' on a personal level: "I'm doing well, I'm not tired at all. I have empathy and understand all scenarios, whether this is the year, the pressure... I'm delighted, very motivated, and the players also seem spirited."

Among them, is Robert Lewandowski, with enough experience and a critical spirit to talk about competing more effectively in Europe.

"I talk a lot with Robert," Xavi added. "Apart from making a difference, he is committed and eager to improve. We need to compete; last year, we didn't compete well, but that's no longer an excuse. At the very least, we should reach the round of 16."

Praise Porto

Xavi praised Porto throughout. "Their transitions are devilish; they're a very dynamic team with speed and a very good coach and individual players. It's a big game against a historic rival, and it's being played in a great stadium. It's perfect for a good match. Of course, I would love to play it as a player."

However, he also wanted to convey the message that "it's three points; I'm not thinking about the first or second place, only about qualifying. If we win, it won't mean we're back, and if we lose, it won't be a disaster."

Nevertheless, he admitted that Europe is "the unfinished business of the project."

Xavi called for playing with courage: "I consider myself an offensive coach, and so does my staff. When we've been brave, things have gone well. We need to be daring while also being cautious defensively, finding a balance. But we have to go on the attack because our offensive play will give us the rewards and the three points."