FC Barcelona has made it official: Xavi Hernandez, the club legend, is no longer their manager. Xavi’s tenure began in the 2021-2022 season, a move that initially sparked hopes for the team’s revival. Although the first season had its challenges, Barcelona bounced back triumphantly in 2022-2023, clinching both La Liga and Supercopa de España titles.
However, the 2023-2024 season proved to be a different story. Despite high expectations, the team faltered across all competitions, notably in La Liga, where they fell behind arch-rivals Real Madrid by 12 points.
In January, Xavi announced his intention to depart at the season’s end. Yet, as the season drew to a close, the 44-year-old Spanish tactician unexpectedly reversed his decision to stay.
Nevertheless, today, FC Barcelona dropped a bombshell. Xavi Hernandez has been relieved of his duties, a year before his contract’s expiration. The club president, Joan Laporta, personally delivered the news to Xavi at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, accompanied by key officials.
The club’s statement expressed gratitude for Xavi’s contributions as both a player and coach, wishing him success in his future endeavors. Xavi’s final match in charge will be Sunday’s game against Sevilla, marking the end of an era.
Looking ahead, FC Barcelona is set to unveil its new first-team structure in the coming days. Interestingly, this announcement follows hot on the heels of reports suggesting that former Bayern Munich coach, Hansi Flick, will take the reins next season.
