Xavi hopes Ousmane Dembele stays at Barcelona "for many years"

Barcelona boss Xavi is hopeful that Ousmane Dembele will be at Camp Nou "for many years".

The 25-year-old has been in strong form for the Catalan giants during the 2022-23 campaign, scoring eight goals and registering seven assists in 27 appearances in all competitions.

Dembele hit the winner in Barcelona's 1-0 success over Atletico Madrid in the league on January 8, while he starred against Real Sociedad in the Copa del Rey on Wednesday evening, netting the only goal of the match during an impressive performance.

There is uncertainty surrounding the France international's long-term future, though, as he only penned a new two-year deal last summer, meaning that he is in the final 18 months of his agreement.

Paris Saint-Germain continue to be credited with an interest, but Xavi is hopeful that the former Rennes youngster will spend "many years" at the club.

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"For me he is important, he is different and fundamental. It's hard to find such decisive players in one-on-one situations. The club know that. Since we've been here he's been at an extraordinary level. I hope he stays here for many years," Xavi told reporters during his press conference to preview Saturday's clash with Girona.

"We try to make sure he never gets injured. We do load control work, gym work. He has changed his mind and he is happy. He feels loved and happy and that's important.

"I give him confidence. I've been delighted with him since the first day."

Barcelona will be aiming to make it eight straight wins in all competitions when they travel to Catalan rivals Girona on Saturday afternoon.

"I agree with Michel (Girona manager), Girona are brave, aggressive in high pressure, it's similar to what we play. Michel is one of the coaches I like the most, he's a reference point. They can make life difficult for us. It will be a very tough match," said Xavi when questioned on this weekend's opponents.

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"We have a very difficult opponent ahead of us. They have pace up front, tall centre-backs. It's a very evenly-matched game. There is talent in both teams.

"He (Michel) is doing a great job. He is a very intelligent person, and was a talented footballer who understands the game and transmits it to his team. I like him a lot as a coach and how his teams play, very dynamic.

"We are in a good moment, except for the Champions League. We are well placed in the league, in the cup, and with a Super Cup title. We can have a great season."

Barcelona will again be missing Ferran Torres and Robert Lewandowski through suspension on Saturday, but the La Liga leaders currently have no injury concerns heading into the contest.