Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández has confirmed that he will leave the club at the end of the season following a 5-3 defeat to Villarreal.
The decision, made before the game, comes amid mounting pressure due to recent disappointing results, including a 4-1 loss to Real Madrid and a 4-2 defeat against Athletic Club.
Xavi Said:
“I would like to announce that I will not remain Barça manager beyond the end of this season,”
“I had decided to leave a few days ago, but I think now is the right time to announce it to help reduce the tension that exists around the club. A change of dynamic is needed.
“So, as a Barça fan, thinking of the club’s best interests, and of the players, I think it’s the right decision. No one is bigger than the club and I am a supporter above all. I love this club.”
“I will give even more in these remaining months,” he added. “I still think we can turn things around and have a good season. I think we can fight for LaLiga, even being 10 points back.
“I think this announcement can liberate the players and help reduce the tension around the club. They don’t deserve any of it — they are a great group. In a certain way it has liberated me, too.
“I don’t want to be a problem for the club, I want to be a solution. I was a solution two years ago when I was appointed, but now, thinking with my heart and thinking about the club, it’s best that I leave in the summer.”
Despite signing a contract extension until 2025, Xavi believes it’s the right time to officially announce his departure.
The 44-year-old, who took over in 2021, insists that the decision is final, regardless of Barcelona’s performance in the upcoming matches. Xavi had a successful first full season, winning LaLiga and the Spanish Supercopa.
Xavi Hernández: "I want to announce that on June 30 I will no longer continue as the coach at Barça. I think the situation needs to change course, and as a culer, I cannot allow the current situation." pic.twitter.com/VSEfG2zRNt
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) January 27, 2024
