FCBARCELONA.CAT

12.11.2009 14:37

Maxwell: Barça have to stay focussed

Jesús Carrillo

Maxwell believes that FC Barcelona must remain focussed on their league and European games before thinking about the FIFA Club World Cup, although he is relishing the prospect of playing in the competition.

Speaking at a press conference in the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper complex the Brazilian full-back explained why he thinks the team cannot look ahead. "Before going to Abu Dhabi we have some key games against Athletic Club and Real Madrid in the league while in the Champions League we have to beat Inter. The best option is to go game-by-game."

The former Ajax and Inter star recognised that the "team is motivated and we know that the Club World Cup is a trophy that the club has never won and so we want to be able to take our chance and do that". Looking back Maxwell continued: "I remember three years ago I saw the final in Tokyo between Barça and Internacional de Porto Algre. Barça were better, but it was my compatriots that won the trophy. That kind of thing has to motivate us."

Real Madrid and Inter

Looking at the next two league games and the visit of Inter, Maxwell stated he was only focussed on Barça. "I do not look at what is going on at Madrid and I can say is that they are under a lot of pressure, It is not easy for them at all, but I am only bothered about Barcelona." On Inter the defender added: "They have improved since we played them in the San Siro. They have a great team and are very stable having signed well. It will be a difficult game."

Playing time

"I would like to play more, but I have to respect the decision of the coach and also I have great respect for the way that Eric Abidal has been playing. All I can do is be ready and at the disposal of the coach when he calls me and then take advantage of that," Maxwell explained about his current situation at Camp Nou.

Ibrahimovic happy

On Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who he played with at Inter, Maxwell explained: "He is happy in Barcelona and at the club. I know he is comfortable and so is his family."