Dani García: “Barça are favourites, but we’re full of hope”
Dani García: “Barça are favourites, but we’re full of hope”
Dani García acknowledges Barcelona’s quality but is confident the Lions can overcome them in their Copa final at La Cartuja
Athletic Club central-midfielder Dani García does not believe the Lions are under more pressure due to the fact they are playing against FC Barcelona in this Saturday’s Copa del Rey final (21:30 CEST).
Having lifted the trophy 30 times, the Catalans are the only side to have had more success in the domestic cup competition than Athletic.
The two teams faced off in a Copa final for the first time in 1920 and have met in the trophy decider on nine other occasions since then, including as recently as 2015.
“I don’t think the fact the opponents are Barcelona means there is more or less pressure,” Dani García said at a virtual press conference in Lezama.
“They’re one of the best teams in the world, but they’re going up against 11 players who are ready to die on the pitch and will give everything.
“For us, it’s an opportunity to lift a trophy with Athletic and it also gives us a chance to play in Europe. Even if we’d won the other final, we’d be just as desperate to win this one. That wouldn’t change.”
Dani admitted the side struggled after losing the final against Real Sociedad. However, he is confident the team has put that defeat behind them.
“It’s difficult, but I think we’ve manged to overcome it,” Dani said. “It’s a second final and we’re just as motivated as if it were the first one.
“Three months ago, we beat Real Madrid and Barcelona in the same week. I think if we’re at a good level as a group, we can lift another trophy.
“It’s one of the most important games of my life. I hope football will give us back what we lost the other day.”
The midfielder also expressed his gratitude for the backing received by fans despite the bitter blow of the first final.
He said: “The following day I went outside with sunglasses and a hat, but I soon realised I was being ridiculous because I’ve only gotten messages of support.
“We have only received encouragement and no blame. Both myself and my teammates want to thank the fans because we feel well supported.”