"I don't like anything that raises tension" - Xavi critical of Barcelona spokesperson's post attacking Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr amid racism row

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has commented on Barca deputy spokesperson Mikel Camps' shocking remark against Real Madrid winger Vincius Jr.

Vinicius was once again the victim of racist abuse when Los Blancos played out a 1-1 draw at Sevilla in La Liga on Saturday, October 21. He urged the Spanish authorities to take action and backed it up with evidence as well.

Real Madrid then beat Braga 2-1 in the UEFA Champions League on October 24, which involved a level of showboating from the Brazilian winger. After the game, Barcelona spokesperson Camps posted on X (formerly Twitter):

“It is not racism, he deserves a slap for being a clown. What do these unnecessary and meaningless bicycle kicks represent in the centre of the field?”

There has since been widespread outrage over the comments. Los Blancos president Fiorentino Perez has decided not to visit the Olimpic Lluis Companys Stadium for the El Clasico on 28 October after Camps' controversial remarks.

Barcelona manager Xavi has now shared his thoughts on Camps' comments, saying (via Football Espana):

"He’s already deleted it, hasn’t he? That means something. I don’t like anything that generates tension, neither the referees pressuring nor this tweet. We must have a Clasico with a lot of fair play, respect and mutual admiration."

"We’ve had games against Real Madrid in the past with a lot of tension, and I won’t be the one to generate it this time.”

Vinicius has been on the receiving end of racist abuse on several occasions in the last two years in Spain, especially at the likes of Atletico Madrid and Valencia last season.

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Xavi provides Joao Felix injury update ahead of Barcelona's clash against Real Madrid

The Blaugrana defeated Shakhtar Donetsk 2-1 in their UEFA Champions League group-stage clash on Wednesday, October 25. Joao Felix, however, had to be subbed off in the 75th minute after what appeared to be a blow to his knee.

Xavi has since squashed any injury claims, confirming that the Portuguese attacker will be ready to face Real Madrid on Saturday. He said (via Barca Universal):

"Joao Félix is not injured. It’s a blow. There will be no problem for him to be there for El Clásico."

Barcelona currently have the likes of Robert Lewandowski, Pedri, and Raphinha out due to injuries. Speaking about the injury crisis ahead of El Clasico, Xavi said:

“If we bring back one of the injured players for El Clásico, it will be very positive, but we will not force anyone. Everyone is doing their part to try to catch El Clásico.”

Barcelona go into the Clasico sitting third in La Liga after 10 games — one point behind leaders Real Madrid and second-placed Girona.