Outgoing Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández has recently expressed his feelings about his time at the club, stating that his work has never been sufficiently valued and that it will be “impossible” for his successor to enjoy the job. Despite having a contract until 2025, Xavi, 44, has announced his departure from Barça at the end of the current campaign after a disappointing season.
Barcelona, under Xavi’s leadership, won LaLiga by 10 points last season. However, they have struggled to maintain their success this term, exiting the Spanish Supercopa and Copa del Rey, while falling 11 points behind league leaders Girona. The pressure and demands of the job have taken a toll on Xavi, leaving him feeling worthless on a daily basis. He acknowledges that past coaches, such as Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique, have also experienced the harsh realities of managing Barcelona.
Xavi believes that his work at Barcelona has not been sufficiently valued by the club or the football community in general. He feels constant wear and tear from the lack of recognition, especially considering his deep connection to the club. No matter what he says or achieves, criticism always follows. Even winning LaLiga by a significant margin and clinching the Supercopa failed to earn him the recognition he believes he deserves.
This lack of appreciation is not only specific to Xavi but is representative of larger issues surrounding the club, its environment, and the demanding expectations placed on its coaches. These circumstances have led Xavi to conclude that his work will never truly be valued, contributing to his decision to step down from his position.
Looking ahead, Xavi predicts that the same challenges he faced will also befall his successor. The pressure, expectations, and constant scrutiny are unrelenting and can wear down even the most talented coaches. Xavi advises whoever takes over to stay true to themselves, be natural, and resist succumbing to external influences. Despite Xavi’s dream of coaching Barcelona, winning titles, and playing attractive football, he acknowledges that truly enjoying the job is impossible given the circumstances.
While Xavi is stepping away from his coaching role, he has not completely closed the door on returning to Barcelona in the future. As a devoted club man, he remains available to support the club when needed. This demonstrates his continued loyalty to the team, even as he recognizes the challenges he faced during his tenure.
Xavi’s decision to announce his departure at this time is driven by a desire for a positive reaction from the team. Barcelona has experienced a turbulent run of results in recent months, including losses to Girona, Real Madrid, Athletic Club, and Villarreal, with conceding four or more goals in each match. By making his departure public, Xavi hopes to motivate the team to rally and overcome their 11-point deficit in the league standings. Additionally, Barcelona faces Napoli in the round of 16 of the Champions League, and Xavi’s announcement serves as a call to action for the players to step up their performance.
In his final stretch as Barcelona’s coach, Xavi’s priority is to finish on a high note. He wants the team to react positively and aims to guide them to their best possible finish in the league. Xavi has made it clear to the players that he is fully committed to this goal and urges them to give their all.
Xavi Hernández’s candid comments shed light on the challenging nature of coaching Barcelona. The lack of appreciation, the immense pressure, and the constant demands take a significant toll on the coaches and make it difficult for them to enjoy the job fully. Despite the hardships, Xavi remains proud of his accomplishments and holds a clear conscience. As he prepares to step away, he warns his successor of the challenges they will face and advises them to stay true to themselves. While Xavi’s departure leaves a void at Barcelona, his influence and dedication to the club will not be forgotten.