Barcelona has announced that Xavi Hernández will step down as the club’s coach following Sunday’s final game of the season. The club confirmed the decision in a statement released on Friday. Sources indicate that former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Hansi Flick is poised to replace him.
Club President’s Decision
Barcelona president Joan Laporta met with Xavi after Friday’s training session to communicate the club’s decision. This move comes just a month after Xavi and Laporta jointly announced that the Catalan coach would fulfill his contract, which runs until 2025, despite earlier plans to step down this summer.
“Barcelona president Joan Laporta has communicated to Xavi Hernández that he will not continue as coach for the 2024-25 season,” the club stated. The meeting included vice president Rafa Yuste, sporting directors Deco, and Xavi’s assistants, Óscar Hernández and Sergio Alegre.
Gratitude and Farewell
“Barcelona wants to thank Xavi for his work as coach, which adds to his unmatchable career as a player and the captain of the first team, and wish him all the best in the future,” the statement added. Xavi will lead the team in his final match as coach against Sevilla on Sunday.
Hansi Flick as the Leading Candidate
Hansi Flick, who has been out of work since leaving the Germany job in 2023, has impressed Barcelona’s hierarchy during talks. ESPN reported that Flick emerged as the leading candidate to replace Xavi, with negotiations now in advanced stages. Other candidates considered included Barça B team coach Rafa Márquez and outgoing Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel.
Xavi’s Tenure and Departure
Xavi announced in January that he would step down at the end of the season, but in April, he reversed his decision to fulfill his contract after meeting with Laporta. However, Laporta has since decided to change direction, influenced by Xavi’s recent comments about the club’s financial difficulties in the transfer market and ongoing doubts about his effectiveness as a coach.
Sources revealed that Xavi and his staff had not received any official information about their future, although they suspected their tenure was nearing its end. It remains uncertain whether Xavi will forgo the final year of his contract or request payment for the remaining year.
Xavi’s Legacy at Barcelona
Xavi, who made over 700 appearances for Barcelona as a player, took over as coach in 2021 and led the team to a LaLiga title last season, their first since 2019. His departure marks the end of a significant chapter for the club, as they look to rebuild under new leadership.
Hansi Flick’s Credentials
Hansi Flick, admired by Laporta for years, has an impressive coaching resume. In 2020, he led Bayern Munich to a Treble, including a dominant 8-2 victory over Barcelona en route to winning the Champions League. Flick also served as assistant to Joachim Löw when Germany won the World Cup in 2014. His recent availability makes him a prime candidate to lead Barcelona into a new era.
Conclusion
Barcelona’s decision to part ways with Xavi Hernández and appoint Hansi Flick as his successor signals a new direction for the club. As Barcelona prepares for the final game of the season under Xavi’s leadership, fans and players alike will reflect on his contributions while looking ahead to the potential impact of Flick’s coaching expertise.
Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is based on the latest available details at the time of publication. Coaching changes and related developments are subject to change. For the most current updates, refer to official sources and news outlets.
