Andrés Iniesta, speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, discussed how the preseason is going so far, the upcoming Super Cup matches, and the return of David Villa. He began by underlining that “the manager has changed, but the main responsibility still lies with the players. It’s our responsibility to give everything to keep this working.” Asked about the secret formula of FC Barcelona, he stated that “the key to everything has been finding the right balance and we have all gone in the same direction, not just the players but everybody around us.”

Speaking about Tito Vilanova, Iniesta said that “although we’ve been together for a few years, his responsibility isn’t the same any more.” Responding to questions about pressure and challenges the team will face in the coming season, Andres stated that “at this club we always demand the very best possible, this year the same as any other. The important thing is for the team to be as hungry as ever.”

On Abidal, Iniesta said: “We are delighted to hear that he wants to play again, and also to see him at training, for him to be with us and feeling so good. It’s wonderful news for him and his people, but also for the team and the fans. It’s a huge joy to see so much energy in him.”

Barça plays its fourth match of the preseason against Manchester United this Wednesday in Gothenburg. “It’s always hard, because it’s the start of the season, but tougher opponents oblige you to put more into your game. Indirectly, it’s better, because you have to get into shape quicker,” underlined Iniesta. He also spoke a bit about the upcoming Super Cup matches against Real Madrid. Once again he said that the players “treat [the games] as very important, although they won’t decide the season … But whoever wins will gain more confidence.”

Asked about the recent comeback of David Villa, who has been named in the squad traveling to Gothenburg and Bucharest, Iniesta shared the joy of the whole team, saying that David “looks great to me considering he’s been injured for so long. It’s lovely to see him training because he’s such a fundamental player and we hope it won’t be long before he’s back doing what he does best – scoring goals.”

Source: fcbarcelona.cat, Picture credit: Claudio Chaves – MD