FCBARCELONA.CAT

24.04.2009 13:54

Guardiola: “This game could be important”

Roger Bogunyà

Pep Guardiola reiterated his belief that FC Barcelona must not look beyond their next match, but did state that the game against Valencia in Mestalla on Saturday evening could be just that bit special.

“I have always said the same thing,” he said. “The next game is the most important. But maybe this one will be something more because it could give us a lift towards the title.” With the media and fans keen to talk about Chelsea and Real Madrid next week, Guardiola aimed the subject back to Valencia. “Every game has to be won and this Saturday we have another tough test then on Sunday we can talk about Chelsea on Wednesday about Madrid.”

Four players to watch

David Silva, David Villa, Pablo and David Villa are four forwards that could cause Barcleona problems, Guardiola then explained. “We know Silva and Villa well,” he said “Mata is improving all the time and Pablo always gives the team something extra.”

Valencia on form

The Blaugrana coach believes that his Barça team have ben slightly unfortunate to be meeting Valencia just as they have regained their momentum. “The fixture list has not been kind to us this season,” he explained. “We are going to Valencia when they are in their best form and have recorded six consecutive victories.”

Albelda and Emery

David Albelda is out for Valencia and Guardiola know that is big news. “He is a very important player for them and gives them balance and experience and knows how to play in these games. But they have other players too,” he added.

Unai Emery also received praise from the Barça boss: He has many more years of experience than me and did a great job in Almería. Now he is at a club where they claim it is not easy to be the coach he has had the ability to keep things on the right track through some difficult times and is doing well at the right time of the season.”