Barcelona confirmed to AFP on Wednesday that Xavi will continue as the coach of the Spanish giants, despite his earlier announcement in January of his intention to step down at the season’s end.
Reports from Spanish media suggest that the 44-year-old, who had already penned a contract extension until 2025 last fall, reversed his decision after extensive discussions with club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco.
This decision by Xavi follows closely after Barcelona’s exit from the Champions League quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain, adding to the pressure on the team. Additionally, the club fell 11 points behind Real Madrid in La Liga’s title race after a recent 3-2 loss to their arch-rivals in the Clasico.
In expressing his initial decision to resign, the former Barcelona midfielder admitted feeling a sense of relief. He had previously described the coaching role as his dream but acknowledged the immense pressure associated with it, particularly evident after a surprising 5-3 defeat to Villarreal.
Xavi’s tenure as Barcelona boss began in November 2021, where he played a pivotal role in revitalizing the team’s performance, securing the league title last season. However, setbacks this season, including a 4-1 defeat to Real in the Spanish Super Cup and elimination from the Copa del Rey by Athletic Bilbao, added to the challenges.
His earlier announcement in January cited a personal sense of liberation and a belief in the club’s need for a change in direction. However, it now seems that Xavi is poised to continue leading Barcelona beyond the previously announced timeline.
