Ter Stegen: Gavi is different, he doesn't think about the consequences

Marc-Andre ter Stegen has given an interview to ESPN in which he reviews the current situation at Barcelona. The German goalkeeper, who is at the top of his game, highlighted the role of Frenkie de Jong in the team, as well as the impact of youngsters like Pedri and Gavi.

Here is what he said:

The importance of De Jong

"He brings a lot to the team. I have a super high opinion of him, but I also expect a lot from him because he has so much talent. He sees and feels football in a different way. He is someone that players like Gavi and Pedri, for example, can look up to. I was hoping he would stay because, in the end, this is the type of player I want in my team. Of course, there were many rumours and discussions and whatever, but I am just happy he is here. I don't want him to leave. I think one day I will put him something here [gestures tying him down] to just keep him here always, forever, and I hope he will be here for [a] long [time]."

The role of Gavi

"He is as aggressive in training as in matches. He doesn't care if the guy next to him is two metres tall, he fights for every ball, which is nice to see," he added. "This is what we need and this is why he is very different from the player types we had before. This is why he is very, very important for the team and for the group. It's also probably a bit about his mentality. He didn't worry a lot [when promoted to the senior side] and this is actually what makes him really, really strong because he doesn't think about the consequences, which is nice. This is what we needed."

Piqué gap

"Araujo is one of these players that has [had] to step up to fill the gap. It's him but it is also Lewandowski, who just arrived but there is an expectation that he is there. Now he is able to talk to the younger players."

Improving with Xavi

"Many things have changed, probably also the mentality and the way we defend. Everything got a different focus. I wouldn't say that before was worse or better, just that focus shifted a bit and right now we are in a good moment defensively. You see results step by step."