His last press conference was a tough one. Barcelona coach Xavi found clear words on Sunday and repeated the criticism that probably cost him his job
Xavi didn’t have to mince his words on Sunday after the 2:1 win in Sevilla. His departure was sealed and so the 43-year-old spoke freely. The criticism after the criticism was even clearer
Xavi left no doubt that he feels like a scapegoat. “I feel like everything I’ve done has caused an earthquake. I’ve been targeted in general,” he said. “I have not been able to work in peace and calm. That is a great pity.” He also addressed clear words to the Spanish press: “It’s about education and values. My parents taught me these values. There are values that go beyond soccer: Respect, education and empathy.”
The coach also referred several times to the successes of the past. Barcelona had won the championship and Supercopa last season, but remained title-less the season before. “The work was not appreciated in the adverse situation we found ourselves in. We were new, we were fighting for the title,” Xavi recalled. “This time we weren’t up to the task, because of little things, because of four key games. “
Hansi Flick is waiting in the wings as his successor, but he is not to be envied – according to Xavi, who gave the new coach a few tips along the way. “I tell him that he will suffer. I tell him to be patient because it’s a very complicated situation,” he explained, before repeating the criticism of the club’s financial management that probably cost him his job. “Barca is a difficult club, but the economic situation is also unfavorable.”
What can help Flick? “Only victories,” said Xavi. “He himself had “been scrutinized a lot. As I belong to Barca’s best generation, expectations have been raised that have been directed against me.” He does not believe that the Catalans will succeed in turning things around. “The situation will not change. The reasons must be explained by the person who made the decision”, he also addressed his words to Joan Laporta, without mentioning him by name.
What Xavi says about his future
Barcelona have somehow managed to turn a mixed season into a chaotic one. What undoubtedly helps Flick is the foundation left behind by Xavi – the squad is bursting with young players with potential. This is also clear when you look at Spain’s provisional European Championship squad, which includes five Barcelona youngsters in Fermin, Pau Cubarsi, Lamine Yamal, Pedri and Ferran Torres.
And what will happen to Xavi now? He left no doubt that he will need a break after the last few days. And what about a return in the medium term? “I hope so. I’m open to it. It would be an honor, but I don’t know if it will happen,” he said. “We’re professionals, we’ll see what happens. Anything can happen in my profession. “
