The Barça coach told reporters today that the league title is the “first objective” and that the game in Zaragoza “is another step towards the title and a very difficult match”
“We’ve got a lot of players missing and with knocks. We’ll have to restructure the team but there are a lot of top class players in the squad”
Jordi Roura revealed this Saturday at the pre-match press conference: “The league is basic for us, it’s our first objective. It’s true that we’re a bit stretched but the squad has strength in depth and without (the contribution) of every player we couldn’t be league leaders. We hope to recover people and fitness in this final stage of the season”.
A tricky opponent
Zaragoza, managed by Manolo Jiménez, are currently just one point above the relegation zone, and Roura insisted today that this would make them a dangerous opponent: “All the teams that are in complicated situations are dangerous. Zaragoza will be no different. It’ll be a difficult match because every point is vital for them and there’s a lot at stake. We have to be focussed and, as always, try and win”.
He also pointed to the many first team regulars – including Pinto, Alba, Messi, Iniesta and Busquets – that will be missing from Sunday’s clash: “All the players have knocks at this stage of the season”. He added: “Sergio had a few niggles and we needed to rest him”. In reference to Gerard Piqué, Roura explained: “Circumstances have meant that he’s had to play more than usual. He’s in great form but we have to find a moment for him to rest”.
Bayern in form
“We’ve reached two finals in recent years, the same as Bayern. Over the last few years they’ve been one of the best teams in Europe and they’re very strong. It’ll be a really tough tie and it’ll be decided in the second match, when the details will be fundamental. Our preparation will be different than if we had drawn Real Madrid, because we don’t know them so well”.
Finally, he spoke about Sergi Roberto from Barça B, who has been included in the squad for Sunday: “Sergi Roberto is playing well. We try and include him when we get the chance. In his position (midfielder) it’s difficult for him to playregularly but he’s one for the future for us”.