We have decided that Dembélé forms part of the squad, says Xavi

Barcelona, Feb 5 (EFE).- Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez on Saturday announced that Ousmane Dembele is “to be part of the squad” despite not having renewed his contact or left the club during the winter transfer window.

The Frenchman made the roster for the Atletico Madrid clash scheduled for Sunday, having been dropped out of the squad for the previous two encounters against Athletic and Alaves.

“We have all met and made this decision,” Xavi said during a presser on the eve of facing LaLiga defending champion.

“We can’t shoot ourselves in the foot. Ousmane can help us. He has been a good professional both when he has played and when he has not been called up. We will use him when I see fit,” the Spaniard said.

Asked whether the French forward could be booed by the Camp Nou fans, Xavi said he understands that the supporters “may be hurt by the situation.” However, he hopes they support him as part of the team.

Barcelona will have available Adama Traore and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who joined the club during the winter transfer window.

“Adama and Aubameyang are in good physical condition, although perhaps Adama is a little better, because ‘Auba’ recently passed the covid,” he added. EFE

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