Xavi has declared his intention to depart from the Catalan club due to the mental and sporting challenges he has encountered since assuming control in November 2021. Defeats like the 4-1 loss to Real Madrid in the Super Cup final, an abrupt exit from the Copa del Rey against Athletic Club, and a recent 5-3 defeat to Villarreal at home have pushed Xavi to his breaking point, prompting his decision to step down at the season’s end.

In response to inquiries about his potential successor, Xavi mentioned Rafa Marquez as a friend who aspires to coach the Barça first team someday, a sentiment he finds acceptable. He emphasized that decisions regarding coaching appointments fall under the purview of sporting director Deco and the president.

Marquez, a former Barcelona player from 2003 to 2010, currently manages the club’s B team competing in the third tier of Spanish football. Nonetheless, Xavi cautioned Marquez about the challenges ahead, drawing parallels to the experiences of Guardiola and himself, indicating the inevitable pressures of the role. He advised authenticity and resilience, reflecting on his own journey with pride despite unmet season goals.

Xavi candidly admitted to feeling undervalued at the club, revealing contemplation of resignation earlier in the season. Despite Barca’s ongoing battles in La Liga and the Champions League, he doubts that even triumphs in both tournaments would quell criticism. Xavi perceives an unwinnable situation, feeling his efforts and statements are insufficiently acknowledged or accepted.

Drawing from his own departure from Barcelona, Guardiola, who experienced significant success at Camp Nou from 2008 to 2013, acknowledged the intensity of pressure in Spain compared to England. He highlighted the relentless scrutiny and demands faced by managers in Spain, emphasizing the unique challenges of the footballing environment.

FC Barcelona performance and stats

FC Barcelona is currently 4th in the La Liga with 44 points.

In the last 21 games, it has won 13 times, drawn 5 times, and lost 3 times. In its last match, FC Barcelona lost 3-5 against Villarreal.​​

It has a positive goal difference after scoring 43 goals and conceding 29.​

FC Barcelona will play the next match in La Liga against Osasuna on Wednesday 31st of January in Barcelona. The prediction is FC Barcelona winning the match.​