After a thrilling 5-3 victory for Arsenal in their friendly match against Barcelona, tensions arose as Xavi, the Barcelona boss, expressed his concerns over the Gunners’ intensity during the game. The match, held at the SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, was a roller-coaster of goals and physicality.

Xavi admitted that he voiced his thoughts to Arteta after the game, stating that the intensity exhibited by Arsenal was more akin to a Champions League match than a friendly encounter. “I understand everybody wants to win,” Xavi commented in his post-match press conference, “It was the first game for us and after we passed a virus. Our intensity didn’t surprise me; theirs did.”

The Arsenal boss, however, remained unapologetic for his team’s approach to the game, standing firmly behind his players for the physical and passionate display they put forth on the field.

Arteta’s response emphasized the nature of football, a sport ultimately belonging to the players. He emphasized that once the game starts, the players take charge, and their intensity and passion are driven by their desire to win and perform at their best.

The intense showdown in Los Angeles exemplified the mentality of Arsenal players, who approach each game with the mindset of warriors ready to battle for victory. Both teams displayed high intensity throughout the match, resulting in injuries and yellow cards. While the enthusiasm of the Gunners took Xavi aback, Arteta commended his players for embracing the game’s challenges and leaving it all on the field.

In the competitive world of football, every match, whether friendly or in a prestigious tournament, is an opportunity for players to showcase their skills, determination, and commitment to winning. The friendly match against Barcelona was no different for Arsenal players, as they demonstrated a hunger to succeed and a determination to play at their highest level.