Barcelona have officially parted ways with head coach Xavi Hernandez on Friday (May 24), who will now leave the club with one La Liga match remaining of the 2023-24 season.
The decision comes after the board was not happy with Xavi’s comment on the club’s financial situation while making comparisons with Real Madrid. Former Bayern Munich and Germany manager Hansi Flick is expected to succeed Xavi and could be announced soon.
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Barcelona part ways with Xavi
The decision to sack Xavi was a formality after the Barcelona board showed its discontent over Xavi’s comment when comparing the financial situation with Real Madrid. Xavi had commented on the club’s inability to challenge big teams like Real Madrid during the pre-match press conference for La Liga contest against Almeria.
“FC Barcelona wishes to thank Xavi for his work as a coach, as well as for his inimitable career as a player and as team captain, and wishes him every future success in the world,” a statement on the club’s official website read.
“Xavi Hernández will be coaching the team for the last time in Sunday’s game away to Sevilla,” the statement added.
The former midfielder stood by his words while President Juan Laporta was unhappy with the comments and did not travel with the side after the Almeria win.
Barcelona fans have to understand, we’re not in the same situation (as those clubs),” Xavi said before the La Liga contest against Almeria.
Barcelona U-turn goes wrong
Interestingly, Xavi had only reversed his decision to stay at Barcelona in April having earlier stated that he won’t continue beyond the current season. President Laporta played a pivotal role in Xavi staying at the club. However, it was his decision on Friday that has now seen the last of Xavi at his boyhood club.
Despite the decision to sack Xavi, he will be the man to take charge of the side on Sunday in the club’s final game of the season against Sevilla.
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