Xavi confident of further success

(GSM) – Xavi believes Barcelona are still the Primera Division favouites despite Real Madrid’s summer spending.

The Barcelona midfielder is confident that the club will retain their Primera Division title crown.

Xavi told El Mundo Deportivo: “Barca are the favorites for the title because we are the current champions. Madrid have spent a lot of money in recent years and are desperate to regain the title, but I feel comfortable being billed as the favourites. It’s a challenge for us.”

Many have criticized the current Barca squad for its lack of depth with several top players allowed to depart Camp Nou.

“Our squad is small, but it’s very competitive and everyone in it is ready to play,” he said. “Some teams have 25 or 26 players but four or five aren’t considered by the coach. We also have a youth academy that is going through an extraordinary period, with players of real quality who can step up to the first team at any time.

“We have a good squad. It’s competitive and I think there are more advantages than disadvantages to having a small squad.”

Xavi believes that Javier Mascherano’s addition to the Barca squad will strengthen the team: “It seems like a great signing,” he said. “He is a hard worker and we will be better with Mascherano.”