- Xavi says he is “full of energy and full of desire” to bring new energy to his beloved Barcelona
- He announced in January that he would leave at the end of this season
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Xavi insists he is “full of energy and desire” to continue leading Barcelona after his sensational turnaround.
The Barca boss announced in January that he would be leaving at the end of the season, describing the top job at his beloved club as “cruel” and “unpleasant” after a 5-3 defeat to Villarreal.
An 11-game unbeaten streak followed, and despite being knocked out of the Champions League by PSG last week and losing 3-2 to Real Madrid last week, effectively ending his slim LaLiga title hopes, Xavi is fresh enthusiastic.
“I am full of energy and desire,” he said. “We are analyzing what happened to us this year in order to improve next season.”
He made a somewhat strange admission: “We’re looking forward to second place. I’m looking forward to it.”
When asked whether his players would now relax about his stay, he replied: “I think the opposite, because we haven’t done our homework.” We have to finish with a good feeling. “We’re playing for a title next season.”
Xavi is a legend for Barcelona. As a player, he won eight LaLiga titles and four Champions League titles with them. In 2020, he was voted into the all-time Ballon d’Or dream team.
Last season he won them their first title since 2019, a remarkable achievement given the financial problems the club is struggling with.
However, they have been by far the second best team this LaLiga season, sitting in third place and 14 points behind Real Madrid with a game to go.
Club president Joan Laporta was close to tears on Thursday as he described Xavi as an “extraordinary person who loves Barcelona and conveys that with enthusiasm, confidence and generosity.”
And Xavi also explained his decision to stay on Thursday with the words: “I love Barca and always try to do what is in the best interests of the club.”
“In these three months [since announcing my departure]I noticed the President’s support [Joan Laporta]the board and [sporting director] Decoration.
“The support of the players and fans – who encouraged me on the street and filled the stadium – was also important in the decision to reverse my decision.”
“We probably won’t win any trophies this season, but this is a successful project. “We have to keep going and keep working hard. I believe we have the capacity, energy and motivation to carry on.
“In January I thought a change was needed, but I think this is the best decision now. “I think it brings stability and I’m especially pleased with the support I’ve received from the club.
“Many people have shown me that this project is not yet finished.” I’m staying to keep winning. “We will correct the small details that cost us this year and we believe that next season we will be closer to our goals.”
