Barcelona president Joan Laporta is set to sit down with coach Xavi Hernández next week to discuss the team’s performance after a trophyless season. While a decision has not been made about Xavi’s future, sources indicate that there is pressure within Laporta’s inner circle to consider a coaching change. Should Xavi depart, potential candidates to replace him include Barça Atlético coach Rafa Márquez, Hansi Flick, and Brentford manager Thomas Tuchel. Other names in the mix are Thiago Motta and former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi.
In a recent unforeseen turn of events, Barcelona’s sporting director Deco and Bojan Krkic traveled to London for undisclosed reasons. This trip, along with the ongoing uncertainty regarding Xavi’s future, adds to the chaos that has surrounded the club since January. Xavi, who initially announced his intention to step down at the end of the season, surprised many by deciding to see out his contract until 2025 after a meeting with Laporta in April. However, comments made by Xavi about the club’s financial challenges have reignited speculation about his tenure as coach.
The upcoming meeting between Laporta and Xavi will serve as a critical debrief of Barcelona’s campaign, examining the areas where the team fell short and outlining plans for the future. Sources suggest that a definitive decision regarding Xavi’s position is likely to be announced shortly after the meeting. While Xavi guided Barcelona to a LaLiga title in his first season as coach in 2021, the team’s performance this year has been lackluster, resulting in a season without any silverware.
Through a series of unexpected twists and turns, Barcelona finds itself at a crossroads, with Joan Laporta faced with a crucial decision regarding the team’s coaching staff. The outcome of the meeting between Laporta and Xavi will undoubtedly shape the future of the club and determine the next steps towards restoring Barcelona’s dominance in the footballing world.
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