The struggles of Xavi Hernandez’s FC Barcelona last season seem to be a thing of the distant past. Hansi Flick so far this season has completely transformed the narrative surrounding the club and there is an air of optimism at the club.
By the time Xavi’s time as Barcelona manager came to an end, it became clear that he was feeling the pressure of the job. He looked like he was done and did not have the mental energy to carry on in an unforgiving environment.
While his style might not have been as exhilarating to watch as Hansi Flick’s Barcelona, it was still effective in its own way. However, it seems the Spanish tactician experienced friction with a few of his players.
In the SPORT program La Posesión, renowned Televisió de Catalunya presenter Xavi Valls outlined the underlying friction between Xavi and Pedri’s entourage.
He first shared insights from those close to the Spanish tactician regarding the €80m-rated midfielder. He said:” “Those close to the former coach hinted that they believed Pedri struggled to perform consistently due to physical issues.”
The journalist then explained that Pedri’s entourage did not take it well. Here is what he had to say on what the Barcelona star’s entourage told him: “Pedri’s camp blamed Xavi for making him play too soon and for not managing his returns well.”
Ultimately, the journalist revealed that Xavi was quite tired of the environment at the club and the entourage of some of the players including Pedri. Looking back, the 21-year-old midfielder had his share of injury issues in the past few seasons.
After seasons of struggle though, something seems to have changed for Pedri under Hansi Flick. The midfielder looks fit and capable of playing every week and is arguably showing his best version in a Barcelona jersey this season.
In his current form, there are few midfielders in the world better than Pedri. The 21-year-old is that talented, making difficult things look effortless. Let’s hope he can stay fit and continue contributing to Hansi Flick’s team moving forward.
