Xavi Stated That Achieving Success In The Champions League Would Not Affect His Future
Xavi has reaffirmed his decision to step down as Barcelona head coach this summer, regardless of whether he guides the Catalan team to Champions League success in the 2023-24 season. The current La Liga champions secured their place in the European competition’s quarter-finals with a 3-1 victory over Napoli in the second leg of their last-16 encounter on Tuesday evening.
In late January, Xavi announced his intention to depart Barcelona at the end of the season, citing the need for a “change of dynamic” at the club. Despite being undefeated in their nine matches across all competitions since the announcement, speculation has arisen regarding the possibility of the 44-year-old reversing his decision.
Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has indicated that Xavi could potentially remain as manager, and club president Joan Laporta is reportedly advocating for the legendary former midfielder to extend his tenure.
Nevertheless, Xavi has emphasized that he remains resolute in his decision and will depart this summer, even in the event of securing Champions League success.
“At this moment, it’s simply not feasible for me to alter my resolution. I will bid farewell to the club at the conclusion of the season,” Xavi conveyed to reporters after the Napoli match.
“You persistently inquire whether I would reconsider if we were to triumph in the Champions League. The answer remains unchanged. No, I will not. My plans for the future are steadfast. They will not waver. I will depart at the season’s end.”
Barcelona currently boasts a seven-game unbeaten streak in La Liga, clinching victory in five of those encounters and positioning them third in the standings, trailing league leaders Real Madrid by eight points.
Barcelona defender Ronald Araujo expressed his hopefulness regarding Xavi’s potential continuation as head coach beyond the current season after the clash with Napoli.
“Absolutely, I would like Xavi to stay. It’s a personal decision, and he has his reasons for it. We’re extremely pleased with his leadership. Personally, I feel I’ve developed significantly as a player since Xavi took charge, and I’m genuinely grateful for that. Ultimately, it’s his personal choice,” Araujo informed reporters.
Similarly, Barcelona midfielder Fermin Lopez echoed his teammate’s sentiments on Tuesday evening.
“I’m optimistic that Xavi will remain with the club. We’re fully supportive of him until the end. I’ll always appreciate Xavi for having faith in me,” he added.
Barcelona, now in the Champions League quarter-finals for the first time since 2020, will aim to extend their winning streak in La Liga when they face Atletico Madrid on March 17.
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