Xavi declared his intention to depart Barcelona by the end of the current season back in January. His decision sparked intense reactions across the Spanish football community, with former Real Madrid midfielder Guti being the latest to offer his perspective.
During an appearance on the Spanish TV network El Chiringuito, the Madrid icon criticized Xavi, stating, “Xavi Hernandez wasn’t adequately prepared for his return to Barcelona. He underestimated the challenges, believing it would be straightforward. However, obtaining a coaching license in Qatar and managing a game with only 300 spectators is vastly different from leading from the Barcelona bench. That’s the reality.”
Despite clinching La Liga in the previous season, Barcelona has faced significant struggles this campaign. They currently lag eight points behind Real Madrid in the league standings and have been ousted from the Copa del Rey. Winning the Champions League appears to be their sole plausible avenue for silverware, but the competition remains formidable.
Xavi, a revered figure at Barcelona, will remain with the club until the season’s conclusion, following which Barcelona is anticipated to appoint a new manager. Hansi Flick, Thomas Tuchel, and Rafa Marquez have all been linked to the forthcoming vacancy.
FC Barcelona performance and stats
FC Barcelona is currently 3rd in the La Liga with 50 points.
In the last 23 games, it has won 15 times, drawn 5 times, and lost 3 times. In its last match, FC Barcelona won 1-3 against Deportivo Alavés.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 47 goals and conceding 30.
Real Madrid performance and stats
Real Madrid is currently 1st in the La Liga with 58 points.
In the last 23 games, it has won 18 times, drawn 4 times, and lost once. In its last match, Real Madrid drawn 1-1 against Atlético Madrid.
It has a positive goal difference after scoring 48 goals and conceding 15.