FC Barcelona technical secretary Txiki Begiristain was interviewed exclusively by FC Barcelona´s official website and Txiki explained the objectives of the pre-season trip to Mexico & USA.


Txiki revealed that this year´s pre-season is different due to the World Cup in Germany, where many Barca players were involved. For the first time, the Barca team will train and play together and the situation demands flexibility and individual training programmes for the players.


FCB: What are the sporting objectives of this tour?


Txiki Begiristain:

"The main aim is to get us all together. It's the first time this season that we've had the whole squad together and that's very important. We also need to work towards full match fitness and be ready for the first couple of weeks of official competition".

FCB: Why has Rijkaard decided to take 30 players on this tour?


Txiki Begiristain:

"The players who were involved in the World Cup have only just joined up. There's always knocks and small twinges in the pre-season, as well as tiredness - we can't afford to risk anything because from 17th August we have to start well".

Follow up:

FCB: So starting the official season on August 17th has affected the tour then?


Txiki Begiristain:

"Yes, and that's why we're taking 30 players. Some of the players started training on 17th July and some are just starting, but they all have to be ready for the start of the season. That means we have to treat each player differently. The training and work on this tour are going to be marked by that fact".

FCB: So there'll be specific programmes for each player?


Txiki Begiristain:

"Yes, that's right. The fans will have to understand that on this tour the way we play won't necessarily be an indication of what to expect this season. We are, however, clear on what kind of team we want -we've strengthened the squad a bit, but basically it's the same as last season".

FCB: Will the tour help the new signings to fit in too?


Txiki Begiristain:

"That doesn't worry me too much -the guys we've signed are not youngsters, they have strong personalities and are established names".