Barcelona new first captain pays tribute to Xavi, Roberto – ‘Will be remembered forever’

Barcelona host AS Monaco for their traditional curtain-raiser of the new season, the Joan Gamper Trophy.

The event began earlier today, and the entire squad was presented in front of the fans at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys.

Unsurprisingly, there was great excitement over the new signings Pau Victor and Dani Olmo, as well as the new manager Hansi Flick, who all spoke their first words to the fans at the venue.

Delivering the traditional captain’s address to the fans ahead of the new season, Marc-Andre ter Stegen spoke at length about the extensive activity the club has seen over the past two months.

“Good evening, it is an honour to be able to represent this team, these colours and this shield,” he began.

Ter Stegen first made sure to shower praise on the former coaching staff, including Xavi Hernandez, and the impact they left on the dressing room.

Ter Stegen succeeds Roberto as Barcelona’s first captain. (Photo by Eric Alonso/Getty Images)

“Speaking of the past, we want to thank Xavi and his staff for the effort they have made and for the sacrifice.”

“On the other hand, we want to congratulate Sergi Roberto for what he has achieved with the club of his life. I’m sure they will be remembered forever in our house as two legends,” he added, referring to the former captain who recently left the club.

Having addressed matters of the past, ter Stegen then began speaking on the challenge that lay ahead of the team, especially with new management at the helm.

“We start the season with great enthusiasm, we welcome our coach Flick and his staff, and let’s hope it will be a season with many successes.”

“There is a great event this season that fills me with emotion, which is the return to our beloved home, the Spotify Camp Nou, and finally, thank you very much for the support always Culers. Visca el Barça,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo