- Xavi reportedly set to stay as Barcelona boss after reversing decision to leave
Xavi has reportedly reversed his decision and opted to continue as Barcelona’s head coach beyond the current season, as indicated by reports from Fabrizio Romano.
This change of heart followed a meeting on Wednesday night at the residence of FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta.
Football transfer expert Fabrizio Romano shared the news on his X page, detailing the outcome of the discussions that led to Xavi’s change of heart.
Romano posted, “???? BREAKING: Xavi has decided to change his mind and STAY as Barcelona manager! After tonight’s meeting and Laporta insisting for him to stay, Xavi accepts Barça conditions and will continue as head coach. Formal steps to follow. “
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This decision contrasts with Xavi’s previous announcement in January, prompted by a 5-3 home defeat against Villarreal, where he advocated for a “change of dynamic” within the club. Despite recent setbacks, including a loss to Real Madrid and elimination from the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona’s leadership aims to retain Xavi for financial reasons, as highlighted by ESPN reporters Marsden and Llorens. The two ESPN reporters wrote Wednesday that the club’s debt is threatening to impact its ability to extend and sign players this summer.
This financial strain also limits Barcelona’s options in finding a replacement for Xavi, as pointed out by Dermot Corrigan of The Athletic.
With Hernández now slated to return, Barcelona can return focus to recovering from the club’s financial woes.
Barcelona is currently second in La Liga with a record of 21-4-7, 11 points behind first-place Real Madrid. The club was knocked out of the Champions League in the quarterfinals this month against Paris-Saint Germain; Xavi was sent off in the tie’s second leg.
Since taking over as manager, Xavi has led Barcelona to domestic league and supercup titles—both in 2023.
As a player, Hernández spent 24 years with Barcelona. Only Lionel Messi has played more games than his 767 appearances with the club.