Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández finds himself in a precarious position as a section of the first-team squad begins to lose faith in his leadership, according to sources close to the situation. While the recent 4-1 defeat to Real Madrid in the Spanish Supercopa final may have intensified tensions, it appears that the disillusionment predates this humbling Clásico loss in Saudi Arabia.
For some time now, several players have been questioning the team’s approach, leading to further frustrations. One area of contention revolves around Xavi’s statement that the players have failed to adapt to Barcelona’s style of play. This comment has not been received well, with some players feeling that they have not been treated equally. Inconsistencies in how certain members of the squad are handled have raised concerns among some of the players.
While Xavi maintains that the players are still behind him, acknowledging the possibility of discontent within a 20-player squad, there are clear signs of unease within the team. The results this season have not met expectations, but Xavi insists that he is satisfied with the behavior and attitude displayed by the entire team. According to one source, the 3-2 victory over Almeria before Christmas marked a potential turning point in the coach-player relationship. Xavi’s described his halftime team talk during that game as his harshest ever, recognizing the need for a drastic intervention to secure a victory against LaLiga’s bottom club.
However, doubts had already begun to creep in prior to that crucial victory. Barcelona’s defeats in LaLiga against Madrid and Girona, as well as in the Champions League against Shakhtar Donetsk and Royal Antwerp, raised questions about the team’s performance and Xavi’s ability to navigate challenges. Despite his repeated assurances in news conferences that the relationship with his players remains positive, the defeat to Madrid seemed to cast doubt on these claims.
Sporting director Deco vehemently defended Xavi, asserting the coach’s importance to the club and dispelling any speculations about his future. However, insiders privy to ESPN have acknowledged that uncertainty surrounds Xavi’s prospects beyond this season, despite his recent contract renewal until 2025. This newfound skepticism suggests that confidence in Xavi may be diminishing. However, Barcelona’s financial fair play predicament presents a significant hurdle to dismissing the coach and finding a suitable replacement. Additionally, there is a lack of obvious candidates available for an immediate solution.
If Xavi were to part ways with Barcelona before the season’s end, sources indicate that president Joan Laporta favors Barça Atletic coach and former Mexico international Rafa Marquez as an interim replacement. Marquez’s familiarity with the club and his experience as a player could make him a viable short-term solution.
Barcelona’s recent lackluster performances, which have drawn criticism from local media, were accentuated by the defeat to Madrid. While the team has managed to avoid direct repercussions in terms of results, they currently sit eight points behind LaLiga leaders Girona, who have played an additional game, and seven points behind second-place Madrid. Despite these setbacks, Barcelona remains in contention in the Copa del Rey and the Champions League, with upcoming matches against third-tier Unionistas de Salamanca and Napoli, respectively.
Xavi Hernández, a club legend who spent over 20 years as a player at Barcelona, assumed his role as coach in 2021. After achieving their first league title since 2019 last year, expectations were high for Xavi’s second full season in charge. However, the challenges he currently faces highlight the complexity of managing a team of talented individuals and the difficulties inherent in maintaining harmony within a professional football club. Time will tell whether Xavi can overcome these obstacles and lead Barcelona to future success.
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