Bartomeu tells Sergi Roberto: You have to retire at Barcelona
Sergi Roberto received a Fair Play award on Monday
He was accompanied by president Josep Maria Bartomeu
Sergi Roberto received the Premi Barça Jugadors on Monday, a prize which recognises 'Fair Play' for the last season. Of the six nominees -- Ter Stegen, Piqué, Umtiti, Iniesta, Sergi Roberto and Messi -- a voting panel of 15 decided on the final winner.
After receiving the award, Sergi Roberto spoke to Barça TV about the Champions League draw: "There was a big chance that we would draw Chelsea. At this stage of the competition, you're always going to get a difficult tie.
"They demonstrated last season, winning the Premier League, that they're a good side. It will be tough, but we're excited and happy to have drawn Chelsea.
"They have a lot of players that we've shared a dressing room with for Barça and for Spain. It will be good to see them (...) but hopefully they let us win!"
Roberto also praised the role of La Masia in his development and progression and spoke about the prize he had just received.
Roberto también valoró el papel de La Masia en el FC Barcelona. "Siempre ha sido importante. Personalmente he tenido la suerte de que se ha confiado mucho en la cantera desde que estoy aquí, y este es el camino a seguir", añadió.
"I want to thank everyone that voted for me," he added. "It's a special distinction and a pleasure to win it. A lot of players deserved it and I have it, but it's for the whole team, so I want to thank my teammates. And my coaches. They're part of who I am. they have taught me values, respect for the opposition, for referees."
In his brief speech, president Josep Maria Bartomeu said that he would like Roberto, who is in talks over a new deal, to retire at Camp Nou.
"Roberto'scommitmentt to the club and to his teammates, his humility (...) they're all things that we really value," Bartomeu said.
"He will always be linked to our club. He has to remain here for many more year yet... [turned to Sergi] you have to retire at Barcelona because that would make us very happy."
Finally, Bartomeu wanted to remember Roberto's winning goal in the 6-1 win against PSG: "I have seen a lot of comebacks, but he allowed us to enjoy the mother of all comebacks!"
