Cesar Azpilicueta talks to AS
Spanish daily AS have published a new interview with Chelsea defender Cesar Azpilicueta on Monday.
The interview takes place before Chelsea take on Barcelona in the Champions League last-16.
On Tuesday night the sides meet at Stamford Bridge before the return leg at the Camp Nou in two weeks time.
‘Andres Iniesta is not welcomed at Chelsea’
Chelsea and Barcelona have a long history in the Champions League.
Back in 2009, in perhaps the most controversial of all the matches, Barca progressed past Chelsea in the UCL semifinal following a 1-1 draw in west London. Andres Iniesta was the hero for Barca on that occasion as his incredible strike send Barca into the final on away goals.
According to Azpilicueta, Chelsea haven’t forgotten about Iniesta’s moment of magic:
That (goal) changed his history so much and I think the Chelsea fans still feel that in their hearts.
I think Andres continues to generate nightmares and I do not think we will get a good reception.
Iniesta: “Goal against Chelsea in 2009? Every time I’ve the opportunity to see it I get emotional, as I imagine happens for the vast majority of 'cules', about one of the most incredible days we have lived, but the present tells me it’d be a special and very tough knockout match” pic.twitter.com/Sm4lAvQQSA
— Barcastuff (@barcastuff__) February 16, 2018
Antonio Conte & Roman Abramovich
Azpilicueta also discussed what his life is like at Chelsea.
He discussed playing for Italian manager Antonio Conte, and what it’s like having Roman Abramovich in charge of the Blues:
(Conte is) demanding. He’s a guy who knows he can and should ask us for the most from this team.
Chelsea is there because of the investment (Abramovich) made and his commitment. He is a very discreet person, sometimes he is there and you do not know that you have him next to you!
Also see: Barcelona’s major weakness before Chelsea.
Chelsea vs Barcelona predictions: Champions League preview, line-ups & football betting tips.