30.07.2010 15:17

Zubi: “I have a huge challenge ahead of me”

Jordi Clos

Andoni Zubizarreta believes that his main objective as the new Sporting Director of Professional Football at FC Barcelona is to ensure that the club stay on the same line and enjoy even more success.

The former Blaugrana goalkeeper has put pen-to-paper on a one-year deal, with the option of two more, that sees him installed at Camp Nou and he is relishing his new role. "I have a huge challenge ahead of me," he said at his presentation on Friday. "I want to thank FC Barcelona for the chance they have given me at what is the biggest club in the world. I am at the best place at the best moment.

"Barça have touched the sky and we need to ensure that this extraordinary level is maintained and while that is a difficult task it is the objective."

Good job

Outlining the tasks and responsibilities that has in his new job Zubizarreta explained how the professional teams will be what he oversees. "We will look for what is required to maintain the level of competitive excellence of the last two decades," he continued. "We found the club in great condition, especially in the sporting area. If there is a style it is that of Barça and Txiki Begiristain did a great job."

Contract details

Zubizarreta is pleased with the contract that he has signed: "I feel very comfortable with his," he commented. "I have the confidence of the board. I do not feel like a substitute. I am working with professionals."

Buying and selling

In his first appearance as the club's Sporting Director the former Spain international talked about possible changes to Pep Guardiola's playing squad this summer. "We will look at what is required in the technical secretary's office," he said. "We are not going to be pressured into looking for substitutes. We are looking for players that will improve us. But before signing we will always have a look at who we have in the youth ranks."

Fàbregas desire

Vice persident Josep Maria Bartomeu accompanied Zubizarreta and he was asked about the club's approach for Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fàbregas. "We had a conversation with Arsenal and they told us that they did not want to sell him. They have since made that official and there is no trip to London planned imminently. We respect their decision and if they ever change it then we will be first int he queue."

Zubizarreta was then asked about Marcos Senna. "We have not made a move for any midfielder as we have looked who we have here already," he confirmed. On Zlatan Ibrahimovic he added: "he is a great player. He has a contract and is at the best club in the world."

Barça symbol

Bartomeu then welcomed the new Sporting Director: "Zubizarreta symbolises the philosophy of the club," he explained. "He has great knowledge and it always honest reflective and calm. Everyone was pleased that he accepted the role. He will not be alone and will have the help of everyone."