Outgoing Barcelona boss Xavi has cautioned his successor about the difficulties of managing the club, saying the role will bring "suffering." Xavi, 44, was sacked ahead of the final game of the season, a 2-1 victory over Sevilla. Hansi Flick, former Germany and Bayern Munich manager, is set to take over.
Despite being under contract until 2025, Xavi initially planned to leave in January but decided to stay on at Camp Nou in April. Reflecting on his tenure, Xavi 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.”
Xavi, who took over as head coach in November 2021, led Barcelona to a La Liga and Spanish Super Cup double in his first full season. However, this season, they finished second in La Liga, 10 points behind Real Madrid. His dismissal came a month after the club confirmed he would stay, following remarks about Barcelona's financial issues that reportedly angered president Joan Laporta.
"I have the feeling that everything I have done in these two and a half years has caused an earthquake," Xavi said. "I have been targeted many times in many situations." He expressed disappointment that his efforts were "not sufficiently appreciated" and resigned to his fate, despite disagreeing with the reasoning behind his sacking.
Xavi is open to new opportunities but plans to rest first. "It’s so difficult to coach Barcelona," he added. "It’s been tough last week, but I have my conscience very clear. I’m proud and happy."
