Robert Lewandowski on Xavi Hernandez's decision to leave Barcelona – “I understand it perfectly”

Following Xavi Hernandez's announcement that he will step down as Barcelona head coach at the end of the season, reports have noted that many players have been deeply affected by the decision.

Robert Lewandowski was one of those, and it was reported that he tried on several occasions to convince Xavi to reconsider his decision, although he did not succeed. The Polish striker has developed a strong relationship with the 44-year-old over the past 18 months, having joined from Bayern Munich in the summer of 2022.

Lewandowski spoke Sport on Thursday regarding the imminent departure of Xavi. The 35-year-old admitted that he fully understands the reasons why they left in the summer.

“Being a coach or player of Barcelona is a lot of pressure. It's normal, and the team or club is in a more difficult moment than before, with a team with very young players. The expectations are always very high.

“I understand what all this means for him: he is from Barcelona, ​​he was a player and now he is a coach. From an emotional point of view it is very difficult and I understand him perfectly. Not only him, but also his family” .

Lewandowski will hope that he and his Barcelona teammates can give Xavi the perfect send-off. Their hopes are likely to rest on the Champions League, although it is not insurmountable that they cancel the deficit of eight points to Real Madrid in the League.