Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez has broken his silence after the club’s decision to part ways with him at the end of the season. Initially set to leave, Xavi reversed his decision, only to be sacked just a month later.
In late January, Xavi announced his intention to step down as manager, citing a “point of no return.” However, a turnaround in performance led him to reconsider. Yet, Barcelona’s management opted to sack him, with his last match in charge set against Sevilla.
Xavi expressed his gratitude to the fans and the club, emphasizing his pride in leading the team for two and a half years. He thanked everyone involved in the journey, from players to staff to the board of directors. He pledged continued support for Barcelona as a fan, despite his departure from the managerial role.
However, tensions reportedly arose between Xavi and club president Joan Laporta over discussions about the club’s financial challenges. As a result, former Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick is poised to take over, following decisive talks between Flick and sporting director Deco.
He wrote on Instagram: “Dear fans, my time on the Barça bench will end on Sunday. It’s never easy to leave the club of your life, but I do it very proudly, after two and a half years at the head of a dressing room that has been like a second family. I want to thank the support and affection of the fans, who have always been by my side and have always shown me the same love as during my time as a footballer. From Sunday I will be one more culer (Barcelona supporter) in the stands, either now at the Olympic Stadium or in a few months at the Nou Camp. Because before I am a player or a coach, I am a Barcelona fan and I only want the best for the club of my life, which will always have me at its disposal.
“I have worked with a group of fantastic players and with a spectacular staff. Thanks to all of them, we have been achieving the objectives set, culminating last year with a League and a Super Cup. This season things didn’t go as we wanted, but we put our heads together and helped grow a new generation of young footballers from La Masia who inspire all of us Barcelona fans. Many thanks to all. To the fans, the players, the staff, the club employees, the President, the Board of Directors, the sports directors, the media and everyone with whom I have shared the journey over these two and a half seasons. I wish the best to the club that I carry in my heart.
“Visca Barça.”
After 24 years as a player and a managerial stint, Xavi will now seek new opportunities, possibly after a break from the game. His departure marks the end of an era at Barcelona.
