FC Barcelona need some answers to their problems, which are truly starting to mount. Beyond just their sporting mess, which itself is a big hurdle, they also worry about the managerial position. For Barcelona, moving forward with such uncertainty is proving to be a massive challenge.
Following Xavi’s announcement that he would be leaving the team at the end of the season, a shift was felt within the club. Barcelona began to play with more ambition and desire, and it reflected well on the field. However, as the days go by, those traits of positivity slowly come to die out.
This is because, according to SPORT, there is now a clear level of doubt in the locker room. Barcelona is unaware of who their new coach will be, and if the project is one that is even worth depending on and relying on given the lack of information present about what direction the club will take.
Whereas Xavi had a project he was hoping to work on, the new coaches will bring about new ideas. Moreover, the Spaniard currently in charge was the reason many of the team’s current stars even decided to join. The likes of Ilkay Gundogan and Jules Kounde, for instance, have even publicly admitted to this fact.
Moreover, the kind of names being linked to the Barcelona bench for the next coach are divisive. While there are no absolutes at the moment, as Deco and Joan Laporta continue to look out for options, certain rumors cater to certain players more than others.
A German coach such as Hansi Flick or Thomas Tuchel could possibly favor players like Gundogan or Robert Lewandowski more. However, their ability to adapt would be a bit of an X-factor given the new challenges that await in Spain at a club of the stature of Barcelona.
Others like Rafa Marquez could potentially be better for the youngsters of the team. Perhaps more names from the subsidiary could end up being seen playing for the Barcelona first team. However, his lack of success at the highest level of the game could be a limitation that prevents Barça from fully trusting him.
As it stands, the one thing that is clear is the unity of the players with Xavi. A Barcelona icon through and through, it is no wonder the players hold him in such high regard. However, his departure seems to only be a matter of time, but what he may leave behind is a disjointed locker room.
