Barcelona’s open secret has been confirmed: Xavi Hernández will not remain the head coach for the first team in the 2024-25 season. His last match will be on Sunday 26th May 2024 La Liga finale against Sevilla, as announced by the club on Friday 24th May 2024.
The club has released a comprehensive statement regarding the dismissal of their esteemed midfielder.
“On Friday, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has informed Xavi Hernández that he will not be continuing as first team coach in the 2024-25 season.
The meeting happened at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper and was also attended by sporting vice-president Rafa Yuste, director of sport Anderson Luís de Souza, Deco, Xavi, Òscar Hernández and Sergio Alegre.
FC Barcelona wishes to thank Xavi for his work as coach, as well as for his inimitable career as a player and as team captain, and wishes him every future success in the world.
Xavi Hernández will be coaching the team for the last time in Sunday’s game away to Sevilla.
During the course of the next few days, FC Barcelona will be making an announcement regarding the new first team structure.”
Hansi Flick, the former Bayern Munich and Germany manager is widely anticipated to replace Xavi, having reportedly agreed to a one-year contract with an option for a second. His official announcement as the first team manager is expected early next week.
Xavi leaves after a two-and-a-half-year tenure, overseeing 142 official games and securing two titles. He played a pivotal role in the club’s rebuild, succeeding Ronald Koeman and clinching La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup in his inaugural full season.
Despite a successful start, Xavi’s fortunes dipped this season. He initially declared his departure at the campaign’s end in late January, only to retract amidst a run of strong results in March and April. However, a harrowing Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain and a decisive El Clásico loss to Real Madrid reignited speculation over his managerial position.
The situation escalated when Xavi’s press conference remarks last week reportedly upset president Joan Laporta, leading to swift action to formalize the separation.
Xavi’s exit, though not as smooth as it could have been, brings closure and a chance to honour a legend who embraced a challenging role during a tumultuous time for the club and dedicated himself fully.
Barça now looks ahead to a future without Xavi, with sporting director Deco poised to revamp the squad this summer, likely alongside the appointment of Hansi Flick.
A heartfelt thanks to Xavi for his commitment and contributions.
Writer
Samuel Kojo Adjei
