Olympiacos Veteran Dani Garcia Reveals Strategy Ahead of Champions League Clash with Barcelona
By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News
Olympiacos midfielder Dani Garcia has shared insights into his team’s mindset ahead of their UEFA Champions League group stage clash with Barcelona, stressing that the Greek side must “be serious” and give their all to compete against the Catalan giants.
According to Barca Universal, the 35-year-old Spanish midfielder — who spent a decade in La Liga with Eibar and Athletic Bilbao — is preparing for a return to familiar ground as Olympiacos gear up to face one of Europe’s most dominant clubs.
‘We Have to Give Our Best’ — Garcia
Speaking to AS, Garcia reflected on his vast experience in Spanish football and the approach needed for Olympiacos to hold their own against Barcelona.
“We have to give our best. We all know how to play against teams like this. Against Arsenal, we showed that we can play well, and we hope to give a similar performance this time, but with a different result than we got in England,” he said.
Despite his age, Garcia remains enthusiastic about big fixtures like this, adding:
“Yes, you don’t have to be 20 to enjoy this game. It’s a great match, and whatever your age, it’s great to come and play here.”
Comparing Arsenal and Barcelona
Garcia noted that both Arsenal and Barcelona are elite sides but differ in their tactical identities.
“The common factor is that both teams are big and are favourites to win the championship, but each has a different style,” he explained.
“Olympiacos has to be serious against them and give it their all. The two matches are different, but the level is very high, and we have to perform excellently to be able to face them.”
Having faced Barcelona more than 20 times during his La Liga career, Garcia admitted that matches against the Spanish champions remain special.
“Out of 23 games, I lost about 19 or 20 and won only three or four. They were beautiful games, and the moments of victory are unforgettable.”
On Lamine Yamal and Messi Comparisons
When asked about the rising Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal and whether he could be compared to Lionel Messi, Garcia was cautious.
“Not yet, and I don’t think comparing him to Messi helps. He’s just starting his career,” Garcia said.
“He needs to surround himself with people who protect him and give him good advice. He’s already a world-class player.”
The veteran midfielder also praised Hansi Flick’s attacking philosophy at Barcelona, saying:
“Last season he played very attractive, always attacking football. I still find him very powerful.”
Garcia and Olympiacos will now aim to put those words into action when they meet Barcelona in what promises to be a thrilling European night at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.
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