In an exclusive interview with Barca TV, Brazilian left full back claims that FC Barcelona has one of the best squads in the world and can improve on the outstanding performances from last season.


Barca TV: Are you Eidur Gudjohnsen's chaperone?


Sylvinho: "It is not extra work for me, I enjoy it. I know as a foreigner that it is difficult to come to a new country, where you do not speak the language, and are not used to the culture and you are pleased of any help. But he is also doing his part. He already understands Spanish quite well and in two months I am sure that he will speak it fluently.


Barca TV: When you speak about experience, are you reflecting on your time at Arsenal?


Sylvinho: "I came from Brazil and knew no English. I was just married, had not children and was living in a different country with a different language. Slowly but surely I adapted and you always find people to help. After a few year you recognise these things and want newcomers to feel comfortable because I have lived through it myself."


Barca TV: Also, you helped Leo Messi when he started playing in the first team?


Sylvinho: "It is true that is a personal characteristic of mine. I worry about the others. But the Messi thing began when we became friends during my first pre-season here. Two years ago we went on a pre-season tour to Japan and one of the youth team players that came was Messi. That was good fun. After those two weeks we were firm friends."


Barca TV: Barça have signed Zambrotta and Thuram. Does it make you happy to see two new defenders and will it be extra competition?


Sylvinho: "In all honesty, I am pleased because we have a great responsibility. To maintain the level from last season is not easy. Now people want us to win all the trophies again, as if it were so easy. But it is very tough. Zambrotta and Thuram will bring a lot to FC Barcelona and with these two signings we can win things. There will also be more competition, Frank Rijkaard will have more options and we will all have to be on our toes."


Barca TV: Does Barcelona have the best squad in Europe at the moment?


Sylvinho: "Yes, I think so, but that does not win you trophies. For every position we have two players. We can put out two very competitive teams. That is what gives is the right to say that Barça has one of the best squads in the world."


Barca TV: Can this squad improve on the success of last season?


Sylvinho: "They can indeed. But it will be difficult. We have to go one step at a time. We have to start well in the Spanish Super Cup and in the European Super Cup. Then we have to make a good start in the league. From the first minute we will give everything in the league because that will help us in the other competitions. We have to be strong in the league to do well in the Champions League and the World Club Championship."


Barca TV: The fixturelist is now out and this season begins Celta where the team won the league last season. It also means a return to Vigo for you?


Sylvinho: "It will be good to go back to the place that was part of my life and of last season. I know that it will be tough, a difficult game. To return to Vigo is always great to see my friends. That is special. But last season was incredible. To win the league in Vigo and then two weeks later to win the Champions League, against Arsenal, is the highlight of any player's career. But it is true, to go back to Vigo is always special for me."