Xavi Departs Barcelona with Unmet Expectations

Dismissed Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez (44) expressed his disappointment as he departed the club, feeling undervalued for his efforts, following a 2-1 victory against Sevilla to conclude the season.

Xavi, who assumed the reins at Barça on a three-year contract after Ronald Koeman’s departure in 2021, guided the Catalan giants to their 27th league title last season.

Despite accumulating 90 victories, 23 draws, and 29 defeats in 142 matches in charge, Xavi found himself ousted from his position on Friday.

Reflecting on his tenure, Xavi remarked, “I have the impression that my actions over these two and a half years have stirred controversy. I have faced criticism on numerous occasions in various circumstances.”

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“I believe that my contributions have not been adequately acknowledged. This season, we fell short due to minor details. We encountered four crucial matches where we failed to capitalize on our efforts,” he lamented.

Barcelona, runners-up in La Liga, concluded the season trailing Real Madrid by 10 points, experiencing a campaign riddled with frustration. They faltered in the Spanish Super Cup final against Real Madrid, bowed out of the Copa del Rey in the quarter-finals against Athletic Bilbao, and were ousted from the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain in the last eight.

Xavi initially contemplated stepping down in January but later reversed his decision after discussions with President Joan Laporta. However, Laporta reversed course and terminated Xavi’s tenure following a season without silverware.

Regarding his dismissal, Xavi stated, “It is not for me to disclose the reasons or motives. I believe it is the prerogative of the president to elucidate them. Despite my reservations, I had no recourse but to acquiesce. Whether I concur with the rationale is inconsequential.”

“I am departing without a sense of relief because we aspired to persevere. These determinations are made by the club. While we comprehended and respected the decision, we believed it was not final,” he added.

Xavi acknowledged that while he disagreed with the outcome, he recognized the stature of the club, emphasizing the formidable challenge awaiting the next coach.

“The incoming coach must be cognizant that they face a formidable task because Barcelona is a demanding institution compounded by adverse economic circumstances. The endeavor will be arduous,” he cautioned.