Former Barcelona head coach Xavi says the next manager at the club will “suffer” after taking charge of his final game.
The former midfielder coached a 2-1 win over Sevilla on Sunday and leaves with his head held high, despite the complications over his future.
Xavi’s original plan was to leave the Camp Nou at the end of the season, but the 44-year-old performed a U-turn and decided to stay and see out his contract which was due to expire in 2025.
He was then sacked a few weeks ago after revealing the club had financial problems, which angered president Joan Laporta to the point of no return.
During his three years in charge, Xavi has won the LaLiga title and Spanish Super Cup and adds the silverware to his impressive collection he had as a player.
In his final media outing, he had a message for Hansi Flick, who is expected to replace him.
🔵🔴 Xavi: “I would like to tell the new coach that he will suffer and that he should be patient, it’s a very complicated position”.
“The only thing that will save the new coach is winning”. pic.twitter.com/KEL1ZtKHq6
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 27, 2024
He said: “To the new manager, I tell you: ‘You will suffer’. This is a very complicated place to be. This is a difficult job and you have to be patient.
“I have the feeling that everything I have done in these two and a half years has caused an earthquake.
“I have been targeted many times in many situations.
“I had no choice but to accept it [the sacking]. It doesn’t matter if I agree with the arguments.
“It’s so difficult to coach Barcelona. It’s been tough last week, but I have my conscience very clear. I’m proud and happy.”
Despite the bitter ending, Xavi will depart with his legendary status intact and he even hinted that he would be open to jumping into another job.
There are several seats at Europe’s top table currently up for grabs and we could see the Spaniard back in the dugout sooner rather than later.
