Kylian Mbappe struck twice with Vinicius Jr also on the scoresheet for the comfortable win.
Xabi said afterwards: “I analyse the victory from the game. We had a very good game. In the first half, we had a very good tempo with and without the ball and we were in control. Sometimes it was tough, because Oviedo were closed, but the rhythm was very good. In the second half, perhaps we dropped off a bit. Oviedo pushed forward and it was difficult for us to maintain the tempo.”
“We stole the ball from their defence, we moved the ball around and the second goal gave us tranquillity. It was a complete and very solid performance away from home, with great attitude from the team with and without the ball. I was very pleased.”
On starting Vini Jr from the bench, Xabi said: “Everyone is different. You have to demand the same respect, but the relationship you have is different. In football, you have to understand things and decisions are made with the team in mind. That's how it was today.
"We have twenty-odd players in the squad and I'm going to try to get the best out of all of them. Sometimes you can have a few minutes and be important, today Vini was important. My intention is that everyone contributes to the team. That's going to be the norm.”
Xabi was also happy seeing former Spain teammate Santi Cazorla in action for Oviedo.
He added: “I got a bit emotional because I know the moment he is enjoying here, after such a brilliant career. The atmosphere at the Tartiere was spectacular. I hadn't seen Santi for a long time and I was thrilled to give him a hug. He's a unique player.”