Despite having convinced him to stay for another season only about a month ago, FC Barcelona officially announced yesterday that Xavi Hernandez will be dismissed from his position as the team’s head coach at the end of this season.
Thus, the match against Sevilla tomorrow will have added significance for the former midfielder, as he will be looking to put an end to his tenure as the team’s trainer with a win.
The emotional state of Xavi’s mind was already on display as he talked to the press ahead of this match, an event that he took advantage of to say his goodbyes to the Catalan press.
The contents of Xavi’s last press conference as Barcelona head coach are mentioned below:
Xavi started the presser by claiming that he is feeling fine even though he is set to leave the club, and was quite satisfied with his performance as the Barcelona coach:
“I’m fine. These have been tough days, but I have a clear conscience. I’m proud and happy. It’s been two and a half years. Today, I spoke with the staff and players, and I think we can be proud because it wasn’t an easy situation.”
“We’ve given everything. We’ve been club men and have done a good job, although we didn’t meet the goals this year. The experience has been spectacular, and the learning immense. I want to finish in the best possible way and enjoy my last game as Barça coach, which has been an honor and a pleasure.”
“I’ve had to make very important decisions, and I don’t regret anything. I’ve been very honest and sincere. I’ve given my best, we’ve worked with honor and love for this club.”
The trainer also shared what happened during his meeting with Joan Laporta yesterday:
“Yesterday, we talked with the president. He explained his reasons for needing a coaching change. I just have to accept it; he makes all the club’s decisions. I will always be available for Barça. We shook hands, hugged, and wished each other the best. I’ll be a culé forever and wish the best for the president, the sporting director, and the players.”
Xavi also clarified that while he wanted to stay with the team, he understood why this decision was taken:
“They decided this thinking they need a change of direction for the club. I remained motivated and had intact ambition with this squad, but it couldn’t be.”
But naturally, the legendary former midfielder was not too happy with the way he was departing as he talked about a possible future role at the club:
“I would like to. It’s the club of my life. We’ve been through a rollercoaster of emotions, and I hope the opportunity to return comes. I didn’t imagine this farewell, but I have no choice but to respect it.”
“I haven’t thought about it. Right now, I think I need a break. We love this club and hope to have the opportunity to work in the club of my life again in the future.”
Still, the Barcelona head coach was not making too many complaints:
“I’m leaving grateful to the president, and I’ve had no problems with the directors. I’m a club man and have adapted to the circumstances. The president gave me his reasons, and I have no choice but to accept his decision.”
Xavi was asked about the reasons for his dismissal, to which he responded:
“That’s a question the president should answer, as these are his reasons. I have no choice but to accept them.”
“I don’t think it’s up to me to evaluate. The club knows my opinion; I’ve been very clear from day one. It’s not good for me to publicly express whether it was fair or unfair.”
Beyond his problems with the board, Xavi was happy with the support he received from the players and the staff:
“I’ve been honest, explained the reality and the president’s reasons. I’m always honest with the players. It’s gone well. The reaction has been spectacular, both publicly and privately, with their support for the staff. That’s what I’ll take away.”
The trainer also recognized that while there were improvements, his team was not up to the required level this year:
“This year we haven’t been fully competitive. We’ve made progress in our play, but it hasn’t been enough to win titles. The situation didn’t come together.”
One of the reasons for the poor performance of his Barcelona team was the high number of injuries suffered by the players. However, Xavi did not want to use this fact as an excuse:
“We haven’t been fortunate, but I don’t think that was the main reason. Clearly, it didn’t help. We had it in our hands and we failed.”
Xavi especially thanked the Vice-President, Rafa Yuste, for his encouragement till the last moment:
“He has been a very special man, giving us confidence until the last moment. With Rafa, I’m grateful, just like with the president, Deco, and everyone we’ve worked with.”
After that, Xavi said his goodbye to the reporters in the room, and ensured them he will be missing them:
“Thank you all. Although you may not believe it, I will miss you. Visca el Barça.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
