Joan Laporta Clarifies Xavi’s Departure And Hansi Flick’s Arrival At Barcelona.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta has provided insights into the surprising departure of Xavi as head coach and the subsequent appointment of Hansi Flick as his successor.
Earlier in January, Xavi had announced his intention to step down as manager of the Catalan giants in the summer. However, he was persuaded to reconsider his decision by senior figures within the club.
However, at the end of May, Barcelona made the decision to part ways with Xavi, with Flick stepping in as his replacement. Laporta has now shed light on the reasons behind this change at the conclusion of the 2023-24 campaign.
“Xavi has performed admirably, taking over the team during a challenging period. While we secured the league title and Super Cup last year, this season presented challenges,” Laporta stated on the President’s Podcast on Barca One.
“In February, we agreed to his departure in June, considering his strong ties to the club and to avoid the urgent search for a replacement. However, he expressed a desire to continue, and I inquired if he had faith in the team, to which he affirmed.
“What led to the change? A shift in discourse concerning the squad prompted a reconsideration. It compelled me to reassess and contemplate Hansi Flick’s appointment to revitalize the squad and maximize its potential.”
Initially, Xavi had rescinded his plan to depart this summer. “The resolution with Xavi was amicable, and the club extends its welcoming arms to him, as he’s rightfully earned,” Laporta affirmed. “We’re now injecting fresh energy into the team.
“Our acceptance of Xavi’s continuation was prompted, given his prior announcement of departure. However, subsequent discussions with the sports management regarding significant squad alterations – I won’t delve into specifics – raised concerns for both them and myself, leading to the decision to usher in a new coach.
“While I ultimately made the call, I greatly value Deco’s input, although the decision rests with me. Given the availability of Flick, we opted for what we believe will benefit the squad the most.
“In hindsight, there were areas where we could have handled things better. The decision was made, but the execution was tailored to the circumstances at hand, especially considering our quest for second place in La Liga.
“After our victory against Rayo Vallecano, I had planned to discuss matters with Xavi following the match in Seville, as that week the Barca women’s team was competing in the Champions League final. However, Xavi’s eagerness to gain clarity prompted the announcement before the women’s final.”
Flick steps into a team that clinched the runner-up spot in La Liga last season. “It was a decision I had to make alongside Barcelona legends. While my heart urged me to continue, my rational judgment advised against it. I hope our positive relationship will endure, and time will tell,” expressed Laporta.
“I’ve navigated similar situations with Ronald Koeman, Gerard Pique, Jordi Alba, Lionel Messi, Busi (Sergio Busquets), and now with Xavi. Each decision is made with the club’s best interests in mind, as we traverse this challenging journey together. I can already see the light at the end of the tunnel. The club’s welfare supersedes everything else.”
Laporta then elaborated on Flick’s appointment, noting, “I envisioned Flick as a figure akin to a patriarch in a German coaching legacy, whom I couldn’t secure earlier as he was committed to the German national team.
“Since Xavi’s departure became apparent, Hansi has been meticulously analyzing the squad and strategizing how to optimize their potential. Once we determined Xavi wouldn’t continue, Deco and Bojan met with him. He exudes enthusiasm, maturity, and responsibility.
“He assured us of his confidence in steering the team successfully. I acquainted him with our club’s ethos, more than just a football club, owned by its members, so he could grasp our unique perspective. He left me with a strong sense of reassurance.”
Flick led Bayern Munich to a treble from 2019 to 2021 before assuming the role of Germany’s head coach from 2021 to 2023.
