In a stunning turn of events, Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has reversed his earlier decision to leave the club at the end of the season and will instead remain in charge for the 2024-25 campaign.
This dramatic change of heart comes after a lengthy meeting between Xavi and club president Joan Laporta on Wednesday, April 24, 2024. According to reliable sources like Fabrizio Romano and Relevo, the Spanish coach, a Barcelona legend himself, has agreed to the terms set by his president and will be on the Catalan bench next season.
On January 27, 2024, following a demoralizing home defeat against Villarreal, Xavi Hernández announced his departure at the end of the season. “I don’t want to be a problem, I want to be a solution for Barça. That’s what I was two years ago. But now, the team needs a change of dynamics. The situation needs to be calmer. With the announcement of my departure, the dressing room, the staff, and the Club will be more serene. There are four months left before my departure. I will give everything to try to win La Liga. We can still achieve it. But my decision is made and it will not change,” he declared to the press.
This decision was reiterated several times by the man himself, even in the face of subsequent positive results. However, on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, Xavi had a change of heart. After a lengthy meeting with his president, Joan Laporta, the former Barça number 6 decided to accept the proposal from his management.
This decision has come as a surprise to many, given the intense criticism Xavi has faced from both fans and journalists since taking over the reins of the club. Despite the criticism, Xavi has managed to guide Barcelona to second place in La Liga this season, just one point behind leaders Real Madrid.
It remains to be seen how this latest development will impact Xavi’s tenure at Barcelona. The club’s supporters will be hoping that the Spaniard can use this new lease of life to build on the progress made so far and lead Barcelona back to its former glories.
🚨 BREAKING: Xavi has decided to change his mind and STAY as Barcelona manager!
After tonight’s meeting and Laporta insisting for him to stay, Xavi accepts Barça conditions and will continue as head coach.
Formal steps to follow. pic.twitter.com/uVShukTnRO
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 24, 2024
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