Barcelona coach Xavi insists he's happy working with veteran players.

Gerard Pique retired before the World Cup, while Daniel Alves was released after a short-term deal last season.

Xavi said: "For me it is an advantage to train players whom I already know.

"It is key to have Sergio Busquets as captain, to have Jordi Alba.

"I try to be very honest with the players. I accept a bad face, but not a bad attitude.

"I hope to recover 100% of the squad. I think we have a very good group and we give opportunities, it has already been seen.

"It was difficult to manage the Gerard thing, the Dani Alves thing. Telling a player you don't count on him seems ungrateful."