Barcelona boss Xavi is expecting Ansu Fati to enjoy a strong end to the 2022-23 campaign, with the attacker on the scoresheet in Saturday's 4-0 success over Elche.

There is currently widespread speculation surrounding the 20-year-old's future, with Manchester United believed to be keen to sign him during this summer's transfer window.

Bori Fati - the father of Ansu - recently revealed that he had urged his son to leave Camp Nou at the end of the campaign in search of regular starts.

Fati was in the starting side against Elche on Saturday, with Ousmane Dembele injured and Raphinha missing the match through suspension.

The Spaniard's goal was his first in the league since October 20, and Xavi detailed the importance of the strike when questioned during his post-match press conference.

"Ansu needed that goal. Forwards change their faces when they score, you can tell. He was very tired at the end, because he worked very hard for the team in defence. The goal is the result of his hard work and individual talent," Xavi told reporters.

Ferran Torres's future is also being called into question, with the 23-year-old finding it difficult to force his way into the starting side this season.

The Spaniard was also on the scoresheet against Elche, though, with his goal proving to be his first in Spain's top flight since October 23.

"Ferran and Ansu made the difference. I'm very happy for them because they needed a bit of confidence," Xavi added. "I'm very happy with Ferran and Ansu. They will score more goals for sure."

Robert Lewandowski also netted twice for Barcelona in Saturday's affair, with the result moving the Catalan side 15 points clear of second-placed Real Madrid at the top of the table.

Barcelona will now switch their attention to the second leg of their Copa del Rey semi-final with Carlo Ancelotti's side next week, and the team will again be missing Dembele, Pedri and Andreas Christensen through injury, while Frenkie de Jong remains a major doubt due to a hamstring issue.

"We'll see if Frenkie can play next week. It depends on his sensations. I hope we do," Xavi said when asked about De Jong, but it is believed that he is losing his battle to be fit.

Barcelona will be able to welcome Raphinha back into their squad, though, with the Brazil international serving the suspension that ruled him out of the contest with Elche. body check tags ::