Xavi Hernandez continues to deny possible stay at Barcelona, but is involved in planning for next season
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has always denied that he could change his mind and stay at the club beyond the summer, but the continued use of the phrase “Today“- from today – has meant that the questions will continue to come. In front of his meeting with Atletico MadridXavi admitted that he was part of the planning process for next season.
Xavi was first asked if he felt he got his revenge on Wednesday night with a great result against Napoli, amid a constant battle with the press.
“I feel that it went well, but in the same way it could have been wrong. If they had scored that header and leveled at two each, we will talk in a different way. We always try to think about the best for the group, the other day everything went well. For me magical night in Montjuic, that's what we focus on.”
Xavi: “I have absolute peace of mind when Koundé plays. He is decisive for the team and a guarantee. He defends very well and has improved in the release of the ball. He is perhaps in his best moment since he arrived at Barça.”
— Barcacentre (@barcacentre) March 16, 2024
He was then asked if he was part of the club's strategy for next season, alongside the Sporting Director Deco and the Sporting Committee.
“I participate because I like this club. My decision does not change. I am a man of the club and I will do it in any situation that can help the club for the next season.”
However, he denied that he could be the one to implement the strategy once again.
“With the president, if we don't talk every day, we do it every two or three days. With Deco we see each other every day. He knows my position. From today, nothing has changed.”
Xavi also denied that he was looking for opportunities with other teams.
“The intention is to stay until June 30 and at the beginning of rest.”
There is probably some appetite at the club for Xavi to continue at some level. Even if things seem broken, Xavi it would save without a doubt Barcelona money to stay, and remains a practical shield for the criticism that could otherwise be directed at the president Joan Laporta if he went to a new manager for the third time in his mandate, which just passed the three-year mark.