As Barcelona prepares to host Sevilla in their final La Liga game of the season on Sunday. It marks a poignant moment in the club’s history. Xavi Hernández will lead the team for the last time. Xavi Ended a significant chapter in his storied association with the Catalan giants.
Just a month after confirming his stay, Xavi, 44, was informed of the club's decision during a meeting on Friday with sports director Deco and club president Joan Laporta. This decision comes despite his contract running until 2025.
In a dramatic turn, Xavi announced his intention to leave Camp Nou in January. However, by April, Laporta convinced him to stay. Recently, tensions rose when Xavi’s comments on the club’s financial struggles allegedly angered Laporta, leading to the current situation.
Barcelona expressed their gratitude for Xavi’s work as head coach, appreciating his dedication since November 2021. In an emotional open letter on social media, Xavi wrote, "It is never easy to leave the club of your life, but after two and a half years at the head of a dressing room that has been like a second family, I am very proud."
He added, "On Sunday, I'll just be another Barca supporter in the stands. Because before being a player or a coach, I am a Barcelona fan and I only want the best for the club in my life, which will always have me at its disposal."
Barcelona announced that Hansi Flick will take over in a "new structure" to be confirmed soon. Flick, 59, has been discussing with the club for at least two months. The former Germany national team manager, dismissed in September 2023, brings a wealth of experience, including leading Bayern Munich to a historic treble in 2020. Notably, Barcelona forward Robert Lewandowski played under Flick at Bayern for two seasons.
Under Xavi's leadership, Barcelona won the La Liga title and the Spanish Cup in his first full season. However, they failed to defend their La Liga crown this season and were knocked out of the Champions League by Paris St-Germain in the quarterfinals. With one game remaining, Barcelona trails Real Madrid by 12 points.
Xavi’s departure has sparked controversy, with Sevilla manager Quique Sanchez Flores criticizing Barcelona's handling of their icons. "Look how poorly Barcelona handles its legends. What a bad streak," Flores remarked. "How awful it is now, with Messi, Koeman, and Xavi. I hope clubs take good care of their legends. That would be very wonderful. The club's legend is Xavi."
Despite the turmoil, Xavi leaves with a commendable record. Over 141 games as Barcelona's manager, he maintained a 63% win rate with 89 victories. As Xavi joins the fans on Sunday, Barcelona looks to the future with Flick at the helm, aiming to restore their glory days.
