By Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández addressed the media on Saturday, vehemently denying a series of reports in Spanish media outlets suggesting that the club’s leadership is considering firing him. The speculation arose after Xavi’s comments earlier in the week, in which he stated that Barcelona’s financial difficulties would hinder the team’s ability to compete with Real Madrid and other top European clubs.
During the pregame news conference, Xavi emphasized that the club had reassured him of their support, saying, “The club has transmitted to me that I should stay calm and continue working with the same motivation and commitment. Nothing has changed.” He dismissed the speculation, asserting that he had the backing of both club president Joan Laporta and sports director Deco.
The media reports had indicated that Laporta was contemplating replacing Xavi this summer, but the coach insisted that he had not heard any such information from the club. “I don’t know and I don’t care where that information is coming from. I have the support of the president and Deco, our sports director,” Xavi stated.
Neither Laporta nor the club have issued any public statements regarding the rumors, with the club declining to comment when approached by The Associated Press.
The situation is particularly awkward for Xavi, who had recently reversed his decision to leave the club this summer, a choice he had initially made in January. In April, he announced that he had changed his mind after his players demonstrated their belief in the team’s potential and showed improved performances on the pitch.
Laporta, who returned to run the club for a second time in 2021, inherited a club mired in debts exceeding 1.3 billion euros ($1.4 billion) and saddled with the most expensive payroll in soccer. Shortly after his return, he brought back fan favorite Xavi, who had been coaching in Qatar, to lead a team rebuild following the departure of superstar Lionel Messi.
Faced with financial constraints and mounting debts, Laporta resorted to selling future television revenues and other club assets, which he termed financial “levers,” to sign Robert Lewandowski and other players two seasons ago.
Under Xavi’s guidance, Barcelona secured the Spanish league title last campaign. However, the team has struggled this season and will finish without any titles.
Xavi’s comments earlier in the week appeared to be an attempt to temper fans’ expectations, as they are accustomed to the club making significant signings during the summer transfer window. The club’s wages still exceed the salary cap established by the Spanish league, making it more likely that players will be sold this off-season rather than new talent being brought in.
As Barcelona prepares to face Rayo Vallecano on Sunday, the team aims to secure a win that would lock up a second-place finish in the domestic league and ensure a spot in the Spanish Super Cup.
The speculation surrounding Xavi’s future has added an unexpected layer of tension to the end of Barcelona’s season, but the coach remains focused on his duties and maintains that he has the full support of the club’s leadership.
