Xavi: The game against Sevilla is a final for Barcelona

Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez isn't playing down the importance of their game against Sevilla this weekend, with LaLiga Santander returning from the March international break.

The two face off in a game that will likely be decisive in the race for second place, but the Catalans are coming into it as Spain's form side.

"It's a final for us," Xavi said at his press conference. "We have the chance to go second after a very good run, and it's a chance to prove ourselves.

"It's a litmus test. Sevilla aren't in the best run, but they're a strong team. They have a coach I admire and they're a club that do things very well. That's why they are where they are.

"We're at home and we'll need our supporters. I hope there's a great atmosphere."

The game comes at the Camp Nou just days after Barcelona's women's team set a world record attendance in the Women's Champions League quarter-final second leg against Real Madrid. Xavi was one of the many who watched on impressed.

"They deserved that," Xavi said. "I hope it can be repeated tomorrow.

"I enjoy what the women's team are doing. I liked watching them the other day, and I think they are a model that Barcelona should be. They've supported the model in recent years.

"Seeing the Camp Nou like that moved me. I had goosebumps."

?Ousmane Dembele's future remains a hot topic in Catalonia, and the coach was again asked about the Frenchman.

"I see him happy, I see him involved," Xavi said. "I have no complaints about him, and it depends on him.

"I'm clear. He has a lot of ability and if he works he can be the best in the world in his position. He's making a difference for us, too. He's a very good player for the way we play."