Xavi to leave his salary for Barcelona

Following his cruel dismissal by Barcelona, Xavi Hernandez has addressed the controversial situation following the confirmation that Hansi Flick will replace him as Barcelona manager.

The 44-year-old, who took over the reins at Barca in 2021, was relieved of his duties on Friday during a meeting with club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco. This decision came just a month after the announcement that he would remain at the club.

In January, Xavi had declared his intention to step down at the end of the 2023/24 campaign, citing physical and mental exhaustion. However, three months later, he was persuaded by President Laporta to stay until the end of his contract in 2025, despite reports of Laporta’s frustration over Xavi’s comments on the club’s financial struggles.

On Friday afternoon, Barcelona officially confirmed that Xavi would not continue as manager. In a press conference ahead of his final game in charge against Sevilla, Xavi spoke candidly about the decision.

“Thank you, I’m fine. Of course, they were difficult days, not easy days. But well, I’m here with a clear mind and I would like to say that I am proud of the two and a half years as coach. It was not easy.”

Xavi expressed his gratitude towards the club’s leadership, stating,

“I’m grateful to the president and I haven’t had any problems with the leaders. I’m a club man and I’ve adapted to the circumstances. The president gave me his reasons and I have no choice but to accept his decision.”

Despite his departure, Xavi did not rule out a return to Barcelona in the future.

“I’d love to return to Barca one day. Barcelona is the club of my life, I always said that. I’m not closing doors to Barca and to the possibility to return at the club one day.”

Xavi also confirmed that he would take a break from management and would forego the salary owed to him by Barcelona. “There won’t be a problem on this,” he added. “I said it before. I will keep my word.”