Xavi hopes the news he is stepping down as head coach will spark an improvement in Barcelona’s fortunes.
One of the club’s greatest ever players, the homegrown star returned to the Catalan giants as head coach in November 2021.
Xavi led Barca to last season’s LaLiga and Supercopa de Espana crowns, but things have gone somewhat awry this term.
Xavi Hernández: I want to announce that on June 30 I will no longer continue as the coach at Barça. I think the situation needs to change course, and as a culer, I cannot allow the current situation.
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona)
The Blaugrana languish fourth in the standings – 11 points behind surprise leaders Girona – and the former Spain star announced on Saturday that he would be leaving on June 30.
In his first press conference since the announcement, Xavi said: “Unity is important. It is not an easy time but we want Barca and the fans to be united.
“I would like to highlight the reaction of the fans and the dressing room following my announcement.
“The shows of affection I have received have been amazing.
“I have been surprised by the messages, the calls…during the days a lot of my players have come to speak to me and many were emotional.
“I have felt that human quality. My announcement was designed to help the team grow, so that we can all take a step forward.”
Barca will hope to take a first step at home to Osasuna on Wednesday evening as they look to banish the disappointment of Saturday’s 5-3 defeat to Villarreal.
The shock result was compounded by Xavi’s surprising announcement, which he believes can provide the catalyst to a strong end to his final season in charge.
“The reaction of the players should be what it needs to be on the field because we depend on them becoming inspired,” he said.
“There is a lot at stake, do our best in the league and compete in the Champions League. I am still excited, I feel free. I will give a bit extra so it works.”
