Xavi Hernández has decided to rescind his earlier announcement of departing from Barcelona at the conclusion of the season. This reversal follows discussions with the club president, Joan Laporta, and board members on Wednesday.
Barcelona’s vice-president, Rafa Yuste, informed reporters outside Laporta’s residence, where the deliberations took place, stating, “Xavi will stay, he’s really happy and excited.”
Yuste clarified that discussions for alternative coaching options had not been entertained, asserting, “[Barça director] Deco trusts Xavi, it’s guaranteed.”
Earlier the same day, Xavi had a face-to-face meeting with Deco, with Laporta advocating for the retention of the head coach beyond the summer.
The decision to remain comes after Xavi had initially declared his departure subsequent to a 5-3 defeat at home to Villarreal in January.
Despite being contractually obligated until the culmination of the following season, Xavi was widely expected to depart Camp Nou before June’s end. However, he has now made a significant about-turn.
The club is anticipated to imminently release a formal statement confirming Xavi’s continuation as head coach for the forthcoming season, extending his tenure that commenced in November 2021.
Whether his contract will be prolonged beyond its current conclusion in June 2025 remains uncertain. Laporta is scheduled to provide further details during a press conference on Thursday.
In his earlier announcement, the 44-year-old former Barcelona captain had emphasised the necessity for a “change of direction,” citing his reluctance to allow the prevailing situation to persist.
Xavi expressed sentiments of perceived disrespect and underappreciation for his work, underscoring his rationale for intending to step down.
Main image: By Fars Media Corporation, CC BY 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=87249242
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