Ter Stegen talks Xavi, Cubarsi, Christensen, Pena, Hansi Flick ahead of Barcelona vs Napoli

Marc-Andre ter Stegen accompanied Xavi Hernandez in Barcelona’s pre-match press conference, ahead of an important Champions League tie against Napoli on Tuesday.

The goalkeeper discussed multiple aspects heading into the tie, including Barcelona’s defensive form as well as Pau Cubarsi’s rapid rise to prominence.

“It’s what we always want, to keep a clean sheet and maybe by scoring a goal you win, we have more stability,” said ter Stegen, who will be looking to maintain Barcelona’s excellent run of clean sheets.

The performances of Cubarsi have played a key role in adding more solidity to the Barcelona backline in recent weeks.

Ter Stegen did not hesitate in heaping praise on the teenage whizkid, adding, “As a footballer he is doing phenomenal, he can improve a lot at his age, and as a person, he is always open to listening, he is accessible and he is in spectacular shape and we must take advantage of it.”

The German hailed the performances of another Barcelona star in the form of Andreas Christensen, who has earned Xavi’s approval following his superb displays in the number six position.

“Christensen as a midfielder gives us more balance between lines in defense and attack, it was a decision that Xavi made and it gives us a lot, I see him with confidence and calmness although at first, he was not very comfortable,” said ter Stegen.

Having recently returned from a long injury layoff, the German international also talked about his fitness and growing importance in the dressing room.

“It was a hard time out in which I learned a lot. In the first game, it was a bit difficult for me, but I’m fine now. It wasn’t easy for Iñaki and I think he did a very good job, he played two Champions League games and we are here because it is everyone’s contribution,” he said.

 “I think that in the locker room I am important because of experience, because of the games played, I am happy now after a not-so-nice time away,” the goalkeeper added.

Ter Stegen was asked about the economic importance of this tie, knowing Barcelona are slated for a financial boost if they advance through to the quarterfinal stage.

“The millions at stake? The more we focus on football, the better. If we think about other things, we are wrong. We only think about passing. Any competition is important for us and we are going to fight to be successful in the League and Champions,” he replied.

“We haven’t reached another final since 2015 because we made our own mistakes when we were close. I always think that another possibility may come and that’s why we think about tomorrow, not the past,” the goalkeeper added.

Ter Stegen further expressed his desire to go through to the next round and fight for the UCL title until the very end. “We deserved to get through the group stage after two years, we are in a good situation, we all want to hear the Champions League anthem and we are excited about the possibility of continuing in the Champions League,” he said.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen recently reached a key milestone by making his 400th competitive appearance for Barcelona, becoming only 17th player to do so in the club’s history.

Reflecting on his achievement, the goalkeeper said, “Ten years ago when Zubi signed me we talked about all this, I hope there will be many more games than the 400, I am proud to defend this shirt.“

Talking about the opposition, ter Stegen acknowledged how Napoli have improved since the arrival of Francesco Calzona as well as highlighting the club’s strength in certain areas.

 “In the first leg their new coach was already there, they have improved a lot, they want to have the ball, but we go about our business and it doesn’t affect us, we have to play well,” he said.

“Their strength is having the ball and the key is that they don’t have it and they don’t create chances for us, in the first leg we did well, but they scored the one they had, not dominating us is important,” he added.

“I expect a brave Naples that plays from behind and presses high, that does not speculate, has a lot of individual level, the three up top have a lot of level, it is a big game and it is a great team, current champion of Italy,” he further said.

Ter Stegen even singled out his Napoli counterpart Alex Meret as a difference-maker, adding, “Meret is playing at a very good level, we only know each other from greeting each other, but he deserves respect, I wish him to continue well, but to finish his Champions League tomorrow.”

On being labelled as the ‘favourite’ heading into the tie, the German said, “We play at home, we come with good feelings, we have not conceded in three games, we hope to continue in this line to pass, although due to the losses, it is somewhat more even.”

A key feature of Barcelona’s season so far has been the club’s brilliant form ever since Xavi announced his decision to leave the club at the end of the season.

Ter Stegen, though, admitted he was not entirely happy with Xavi’s decision. “I felt bad at Xavi’s decision. But he told us that things do not end here and that we have to give our best. He is a great coach who has brought us back to this point. Unfortunately, he is leaving and it is difficult to accept him as a player and friend,” he said.

Xavi’s announcement has left the Barcelona board to kickstart the search for a new manager, with Hansi Flick emerging as one of the key candidates.

Ter Stegen, though, refused to speculate about Flick or any other coaching candidates for Barcelona, stating, “It is not a good time to talk about Hansi Flick, it is not the day. He is a great person who we value a lot in the German team. I know you don’t like this answer, but tomorrow we play the most important game of the season.”

Source: Mundo Deportivo