Real Madrid sit top of the LaLiga table, with Villarreal two points behind in third place. At today's media conference, Xabi considered the challenge the Yellow Submarine will offer.
The Real coach also was asked about the controversy around Fede Valverde and Jude Bellingham not making the England squad today.
Match against Villarreal
"We're returning home against a team that's in good form. We need to perform at a high level collectively and individually because these are important matches."
International management
"Normally, the players pass on information to us, and we have an open door to the national team. I try to collaborate, and the physical trainers have more contact to monitor the loads."
'Valverde Case'
“He's ready for tomorrow, like everyone else. We know how important the game is and how important it is for the team. No player has ever told me they don't want to play in a position.
"Not him and not Rodrygo. That hasn't happened. Everyone is very willing, and then I decide based on what's best for the team. That's something I'll make clear.
“We're fortunate to spend a lot of time together, talk a lot, and correct things. The team is the most important thing, and everyone will be important and will have their moment. This isn't a new situation, and it's something we have to live with and know it will happen again. We're calm.”
Media noise
"We're close when we prepare for matches, when we celebrate, and when we lose. I've always noticed the trust the players have in me, knowing what's coming up."
Ups and downs
"You don't have to be too high or too low. The more balanced we are, the better we'll handle everything and the more effective our performance will be. This happened, happens, and will happen at any club. We haven't forgotten it, but we haven't gotten caught up in it."
Warming up the substitutes
"It's something we like, and I think it's good because we have to be prepared for anything. It's important to us. I want everyone to participate."
Bellingham does not go with England
"No, not relief. It's just a matter of time before he's back in the squad, and he'll be back in the next one. Jude is better from his injury, eager to contribute and contribute. It's just a matter of time before he's back to his best."
Bellingham, Arda Güler and the balance in the middle
"They can be complementary. We need to connect in those areas, and it's important to get into the '10' position. They have to be comfortable and flow. I've seen them do it together."