Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández faced rumors regarding a loss of faith from the players after the team’s defeat to Real Madrid in the Spanish Supercopa final. However, during a news conference ahead of the Copa del Rey round-of-16 tie against Unionistas de Salamanca, Xavi addressed these speculations head-on. He expressed his commitment to the team, stating that he would step down if he ever felt that the players were no longer with him. Xavi acknowledged the team’s disappointment following the loss but emphasized that the players still believed in their collective goals.
The Copa del Rey is one of three competitions in which Barcelona is still competing. Currently, they face an eight-point deficit behind Girona in LaLiga and have a challenging Champions League round of 16 match against Napoli next month. Xavi, who won the league title with Barcelona in 2019, highlighted that he has consistently met the club’s objectives since his appointment in 2021. He also suggested that he would be open to stepping aside if the team fails to secure any trophies this season, reaffirming his commitment to success.
Xavi compared Barcelona’s current situation to that of Real Madrid last year when they turned their season around and won the Copa del Rey. He acknowledged the criticism but stated that he shared the same desire for the club’s success as he did on day one. As a devoted fan, Xavi emphasized his love for the club and expressed his intentions never to become a problem. He highlighted that the moment he becomes perceived as an issue, he would willingly step aside. Xavi recognized the importance of unity and appreciated the support and belief shown by Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta, during this challenging time.
Barcelona will face Unionistas de Salamanca without eight first-team players. Marc-André ter Stegen, João Cancelo, Iñigo Martínez, Marcos Alonso, Gavi, Raphinha, Ronald Araújo, and Lamine Yamal are either injured or suspended. Xavi particularly emphasized the loss of Gavi, who sustained a season-ending injury in November while on international duty with Spain. Gavi’s absence has had a significant impact on the team, as he is seen as a leader with immense influence. Xavi acknowledged that Gavi’s injury was a blow to the team’s morale and highlighted the importance of his presence on the field. Additionally, Xavi referred to the injuries and the financial constraints faced by the club as challenges that must be overcome.
Xavi Hernández expressed determination and commitment to Barcelona despite rumors of player doubts. He reaffirmed his loyalty to the team and its objectives, making it clear that he would step down if he sensed a lack of support from the players. He encouraged unity and appreciated the support shown by the president and former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola. While facing challenges such as a long list of absent players and financial limitations, Xavi remains focused on revitalizing the club and achieving success. Barcelona’s upcoming Copa del Rey tie against Unionistas de Salamanca will serve as a test of the team’s collective spirit and Xavi’s ability to rally the players.