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Xavi could reportedly make a shock U-turn as the Barcelona manager seeks specific “project guarantees” from Joan Laporta to stay on beyond the summer.
Xavi sent shockwaves through the club when he announced his decision to step down at the end of the season, citing the job as “cruel” while expressing concern over his mental well-being. However, amidst an impressive 11-match unbeaten run, which includes progress to the Champions League quarter-finals, support for retaining Xavi has been gaining momentum in the upper echelons of the Catalan club.
Barca president Laporta, in an effort to retain the 44-year-old manager, has expressed his desire to persuade Xavi to continue leading the team. Vice-president Rafa Yuste echoed Laporta’s sentiments and emphasised that the club legend should continue given his understanding of the club’s objectives and his autonomy in making the final decision.
According to Sport, Xavi is seeking specific assurances regarding the club’s long-term project from Laporta and the rest of the board. The manager wants a well-chalked-out transfer shortlist with players who can be brought on board keeping in mind the financial issues of the club. He is unwilling to reach out to potential targets just for the sake of it and end up empty-handed.
Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo have reported that Laporta’s confidence in Xavi’s coaching abilities stems from his proven track record in developing young talents and fostering a cohesive team environment. The manager’s rapport with both emerging prospects and seasoned veterans is well-appreciated by the executive members of the club.
Moreover, Laporta envisions a collaborative partnership between Xavi and sporting director Deco, leveraging their mutual understanding and strategic alignment to propel the club forward.
Xavi has a contract with Barcelona until 2025 and Laporta wants him to honour it. There is also an option to extend it by another year and the club could potentially exercise it if positive results continue. A win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League will propel them to the last-four stage of the competition and if they indeed manage to outshine the Parisians, the voices clamouring for Xavi to stay will only get louder.
