Xavi on staying in Barcelona: ‘This is the best decision now’
Xavi Hernandez stated on Thursday that remaining as the head coach of Barcelona is the ‘best decision’ for him.
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“The best decision now”
Xavi, 44, announced in January that he would resign as Barcelona’s manager.
However, Xavi made a U-turn on his decision after a meeting with Barcelona president Joan Laporta and board members on Wednesday.
“I love Barça and I always try to do what is in the club’s best interests,” he said in a news conference.
“In these three months [since announcing my departure], I have noticed the support from the president [Joan Laporta], the board of directors and [sporting director] Deco.”
For Xavi, the support from the Blaugrana community allowed him to backtrack on his decision to leave Barcelona.”
“The former Spain international also believes that the Catalan giants could win more trophies in the following seasons.
“The support of the players and the fans — who have encouraged me on the street and filled the stadium — has also been important in deciding to reverse my decision,” he said.
“We probably won’t win any trophies this season, but this is a winning project. We have to continue with it and we have to keep working hard. I feel we have the capacity, the energy and the motivation to keep going.
“In January, I thought a change was needed, but I think this is the best decision now. I think it brings stability and I am happy, above all, for the backing I have received from the club.
“Many people have made me see that this project is not finished. I am staying to keep winning. We will correct the small details that have cost us this year and we believe next season we will be closer to our objectives.”
“Project is not over”
Xavi admitted he felt the immense pressure surrounding the club, which prompted him to announce his departure.
However, the former midfielder understands that this is part of his job.
“Next season, if there is a bad run, we will have to deal with it again,” he added.
“But the pressure and the environment surrounding the club were not the main reasons [for leaving]. I know this club and would not have taken the job on if that was a problem.
After Xavi’s shocking announcement, Barcelona won 13 straight games in all competitions.
That streak ended when Barca lost 4-1 to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League quarterfinal stage.
Blaugrana also lost their El Clasico match against Real Madrid, 3-2, on Sunday.
The Catalan giants are second in the table, 11 points behind Madrid.
Despite a trophyless campaign, Xavi is motivated to continue the winning project until his contract expires in June 2025.
“My opinion of the environment surrounding the club is that it will continue to be cruel and unpleasant in adverse situations. But I told the president I am motivated and that the project is not over.”
