The Spanish manager declared his departure from the club following Barcelona’s 5-3 defeat against Villarreal in a recent La Liga match. Reports suggest that Xavi has grown weary and stressed due to the intense media scrutiny he has faced at Camp Nou since returning to the club in November 2021, a sentiment he has now openly acknowledged.
Speaking about his challenges at Barca before their upcoming game against Osasuna, Xavi stated, “It is a mental and football issue. Failures make the team weaker and the players lower their level. The football level drops due to the mental level. That’s why the announcement of my departure. Furthermore, I believe that our work is not valued enough. I had already decided on it a long time ago, since the beginning of the season.”
When asked if Wednesday’s match would be emotionally charged, Xavi responded, “With even more responsibility, not more emotional. We have a lot at stake, we have a stake in doing the best we can in the League and competing in the Champions League. I continue with the utmost enthusiasm, I am very well. I try to express what I feel. They make you feel worthless every day. It has happened to all coaches. Speaking with Pep he told me, Valverde too. I saw Luis Enrique suffer. I think we have a problem regarding the demands of this position. It is not enjoyable and it seems like you are risking your life every moment. That doesn’t happen in any club. That’s why I say it’s cruel.”
Barcelona has long grappled with Financial Fair Play (FFP) constraints, limiting major signings in winter. However, Xavi clarified that his decision isn’t linked to the club’s financial struggles. “The wear and tear of being a coach has nothing to do with the economic situation,” he emphasized. “I am a club man and I will be until the end. The circumstances, unfortunately, have been very negative. And a very good job has been done from within. I am proud, I have a very clear conscience. I have always prioritised the club and the footballers ahead of myself. Therefore, the affection that is shown to me. I have never complained, I have adapted to the circumstances.”
Despite challenges, Barcelona remains contenders for a league and European double. They currently sit fourth in La Liga, 11 points adrift of leaders Girona with a game in hand. Additionally, they’ll face Napoli in the Champions League round of 16 in February.
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.