Oriol Romeu talks Xavi, Busquets, de Jong, Pedri, Gundogan, Barcelona – Beragampengetahuan

Oriol Romeu’s move to Barcelona this summer is perhaps the deal least talked about. The Spaniard was not a name as big as Ilkay Gundogan or Inigo Martinez but has arguably had the most impact since arriving.

Romeu has been a force to reckon with in Barcelona’s midfield so far, displaying comfort on the ball and seamless distribution. After all, he is an alumnus of the club’s famed La Masia youth setup.

Earlier this week, the veteran midfielder spoke to ESPORT3 on a plethora of topics including his move to Barcelona and his initial days at the club. Here are the excerpts from his recent media interaction.

The Barcelona midfielder began his interview by addressing the elephant in the room – Luis Rubiales and his actions that have seen backlash from across the globe.

“The president of the Spanish federation showed pathetic behaviour. It’s sad because they won the World Cup but the headlines are dominated by that issue. We have to value what the footballers did, they deserve it,” Romeu said on the RFEF President’s incident.

Arriving on the topic of the performance of his club, the defensive midfielder transmitted positive takeaways, albeit not without criticism.

“Our start this season has been good in terms of results. We’ve had difficult away matches, and we’ve had to pull through in whatever way we can. However, it’s clear that we have a lot of things to improve.”

Sergio Busquets marked an era in Barcelona’s midfield, and Romeu is the club’s first effort at trying to replace the Spanish genius. Commenting on the legend whose shoes he has filled, Romeu said,

“Busi is the best possible defensive midfielder for this team. I’m trying my best to play there. So far, I think I’m doing well.”

“It’s a luxury to play in Barcelona’s midfield. It depends on your brain more than your legs. I enjoy it every much, especially with quality players beside me,” he added on the challenges of being a midfielder.

The 31-year-old then elaborated on what Xavi Hernandez expected of him and the specific instructions he received from the manager.

“I don’t know exactly what Xavi instructed Busquets to do, but I follow what he tells me to do. For example, in Pamplona, he asked the most physical players to step forward and press high up the pitch to avoid them controlling us. I always try to help the team.”

Xavi Hernandez has opted to continue with his 4-3-3 system this season with a fourth midfielder playing on the left wing. Speaking on the team tactics on the field and how it played out, Romeu said,

“Our style is very clear. It’s about attacking our opponent with the ball, being progressive, play out wide, press high up the pitch. The philosophy is always the same, but it also depends on the players that play the match.”

Frenkie de Jong has arguably been Barcelona’s best player this season in midfield, and the Spanish midfielder acknowledged his impact in the interview.

“Frenkie makes the team advance with his dribbling. He needs to feel comfortable on the pitch, playing his football. He’s a very good player.”

“The intelligence of Pedri, Gündogan, Fermín… How they turn their bodies, how they play with their feet, the quick mental agility they have in short spaces,” he added when asked what impressed him the most since his arrival at Barcelona.

Romeu went on to reveal the secrets behind his fitness. Atfer all, he has only missed 34 days of action in close to a decade.

“In terms of my physique, I take more care of myself now. I’m still knowing things about myself and I know what I can do. I’m happy and I think I can still improve.”

Barcelona searched far and wide for a new player who could take over from Busquets in the defensive midfield. The search finally terminated with Romeu, and the player admitted to the excitement he had over the transfer.

“I knew that I was one of Barça’s options in midfield. If they signed me, I told myself that I needed to enjoy myself and play a great season.”

“Girona understood my desire to leave. They appreciated my season and respected my decision,” he added on his former employers cooperating to complete the deal.

Finally, the veteran gave his two cents on Barcelona’s chances in the UEFA Champions League and called it the team’s ‘goal’ for the ongoing campaign.

“We will fight for the Champions League. The team still needs to take a step forward in Europe. The squad has a high level, but we’ll see. But yes, the Champions League has to be our goal.”