Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona‘s coach, acknowledges the possibility of his departure if the team doesn’t achieve competitive success by the season’s end.
Following a disappointing Copa del Rey elimination, Xavi faces scrutiny over his role. He emphasized the high expectations at Barcelona, stating the necessity for the team to either win or contend for titles.
Despite a valiant effort against a strong Athletic team, Xavi congratulated them on their victory and expressed his intention to focus on improving Barcelona’s LaLiga and Champions League performance.
He highlighted the potential within the team, particularly the emerging young talents, and expressed optimism about Barcelona’s future regardless of his presence.
With the Copa del Rey no longer an option, Barcelona aims to recover in LaLiga, where they currently trail the leaders by eight points, starting with an upcoming match against Villarreal.
“There is a really good project, not in terms of me as a coach, in terms of a really good generation coming through. Cubarsí, Fort, Lamine, Guiu, and many more players … Fermín López.
“I think it’s the start of something big, but we have to work hard and we have to win. It’s about winning at Barça.”
Xavi understands opponents are going through a tough spell but is still alert to their threat.
Quoted on Barcelona’s official website, he said: “Villarreal are going through a bad patch.
“But Marcelino’s teams are always very aggressive and well-organized, and work hard on defense. They still have a lot of standout players who can make all the difference.
“We still have every chance of catching up in the league and these next two games at home are a key part of that. And the team is very united, we have a very strong-minded squad. I have never seen a squad with so much human quality in my whole career.”
