A single individual is reportedly the reason for Xavi’s departure from FC Barcelona.
In recent months, Xavi Hernandez has begun to speak openly about his roughly two-year tenure as head coach of FC Barcelona. After taking over in November 2021, the 46-year-old noticeably stabilized the team, but his exit in the summer of 2024 generated considerable discussion – not least due to his own statements.
Speaking with Brazilian football legend Romario, this chapter was brought up again. Xavi, while satisfied with his work, made it clear that the role on the sidelines was significantly more demanding than his time as a player for the Catalan club.
«I am very proud. The club was at the worst moment in its history. We managed to make the team competitive and win two titles. We left a legacy of young players who now form the backbone of this team,» he said.
Xavi: «I Asked a Lot of Laporta»
The Spaniard continued: «Coaching was much harder than playing. I felt like I would continue, so we agreed with Laporta, but there was a personal problem with one person in the club who didn’t let us continue.»
The 46-year-old elaborated: «We laid a good foundation from which Flick is now benefiting with his good work. When I started, I asked a lot of Laporta. After winning the championship, my demands decreased – that shouldn’t happen to me again.»
Xavi Hoped for the Return of Neymar and Messi
Xavi had previously stated that he advocated for Lionel Messi’s return in the summer of 2023, when he was still under contract with Paris Saint-Germain. He now revealed that he would have also liked to see Neymar and Pedro back in the Catalan jersey.
«I managed to bring Dani Alves back. I tried to bring back Neymar, Pedro, and Messi. Pedro and Neymar could not be brought back due to the economic situation, and Messi because Laporta did not want him,» he said. «There was an opportunity with Neymar, but that also did not materialize due to our extremely difficult economic situation. Financial Fair Play restricted us greatly, as did the salaries.»
Xavi Managed 143 Official Games at Barca
Xavi remained on the sidelines for Barcelona until the end of the 2023/24 season. He managed a total of 143 official matches, with a points-per-game average of 2.07. Prior to this, he coached Al-Sadd in Qatar for over two years, where he also ended his playing career in 2019. Xavi is currently unemployed in professional football.
Xavi: His Record as FC Barcelona Coach
| Official Matches | Wins | Draws | Losses | Points Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 143 | 91 | 23 | 29 | 2.07 |
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