22.07.2010 19:08

Real Madrid games will not decide title

David Puig

Seydou Keita does not believe that FC Barcelona's two meetings with Real Madrid in the league will determine the outcome of where the title ends up at the end of the new campaign.

The Mali international is well aware of the importance of the big games against Los Merengues, but does not believe that they will hold the keys to the championship. "There are more games both before and after the clásicos," he explained. "I am sure that every team will want to beat the reigning champions although the games against Real Madrid are also very important."

Changing places

Touré Yaya's move to Manchester City has left Sergio Busquets as the only defensive midfielder, but Keita has assured that he can fill in there as well. "I have not talked about that possibility with the coach, but I would be prepared to play in there," he continued. "That is most important is the team. It would be good if we signed another midfielder because we need more great players in the team."

Adriano, Ibrahimovic and Cesc

Adriano's arrival at Camp Nou from Sevilla was greeted with delighted by Keita as he knows the Brazilian well from three seasons alongside him at Sevilla. "He is a great player and a calm and respectful person," he stated. "He can play in many positions and is strong. It is difficult to find players with such great human and sporting qualities."

On Zlatan Ibrahimovic's place at Barça next term Keita said: "He seems the same as always, laughing and joking while working hard. I am sure he wants to do better than he did last term and score a lot of goals and help the team."

Cesc Fàbregas has been linked with a move to Camp Nou and Keita made it clear he would be welcome: "Cesc is a great player and he could be very important to the team and help us a lot. It would be great for me if he came."

More trophies

Keita is hoping to improve his personal performances for Barça and is aiming to find the net on a more regular basis after netting six last time out. "I hope to score more goals than last season as goals win games and that is what is most important," he added.