Maxwell gave press conference today

Brazilian defender Maxwell told a press conference on Monday that the players feel they are in debt to the fans after last season’s European semi-final exit against Inter Milan. He also assured reporters that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is looking forward to better things this season , “He’s very motivated although it’s been a difficult year for him. - said Maxwell- He’s done some good things which people haven’t noticed but in the squad we know, and he’s training really well”.

2009/10 season was Maxwell’s first in Barcelona. He played 36 matches and improved on his first seasons with Ajax and Inter. He revealed today: “It was very positive because I accumulated a lot of matches, especially after Abidal’s injury. The league title, and the other three, made me very happy and motivated me to carry on the same way. I’m here to do my bit like everyone. I have to try and do more, the best I can, and stay fit and focussed”.

We also get to know that Maxwell is helping his fellow countryman Adriano settled down at the Club and in the city: “It’s great we’ve signed him. He makes the team more complete and in training I try and be with him to help him integrate. I want to help him and his family settle in here”.

With the incorporation of Adriano and Villa, Maxwell believes the squad is very competitive. However, he stressed: “That’s a matter for the manager and the directors. The players have to concentrate on giving 100% but for the moment the squad is very good and very competitive”.

Finally, Maxwell spoke about Gio Van Bronckhorst (FCB player in 2003-2007), who retired from the game yesterday after the match between Feyenoord and Mallorca in Rotterdam.