Joan Laporta, the president of Barcelona, recently spoke out about the decision to replace Xavi Hernández with German coach Hansi Flick. Laporta revealed that doubts about whether Xavi truly believed in the current squad ultimately led to the dismissal. This decision came just three weeks after Xavi had reversed his initial announcement of stepping down at the end of the season. Laporta expressed that the club needed a new impetus to be more competitive and get the best out of the team. He emphasized the importance of making tough decisions for the good of the club, even when they involve Barcelona legends like Xavi.
In contrast to Xavi, Laporta mentioned that Flick believes in the current squad’s capabilities and feels confident about their potential for success. Flick’s task will include improving the players’ fitness, an area where they reportedly struggled under Xavi’s leadership. Laporta highlighted the significance of physical preparation in ensuring that the team can perform at their best throughout the full duration of matches. He emphasized the need for improvement in maintaining peak physical condition to achieve success on the field.
Looking ahead to the summer transfer window, Laporta stated that Barcelona aims to retain their best players, unless they express a desire to leave. Despite facing financial difficulties, Laporta asserted that the club will not be forced to sell their key assets. Additionally, Barcelona is interested in extending the loan deals of João Félix and João Cancelo, as both players have made positive contributions to the team. Laporta also mentioned the intention to strengthen the squad, particularly in the defensive midfield position, and possibly in the midfield and winger areas as well.
Laporta expressed confidence in the abilities of youth and academy players within the Barcelona system. He emphasized the importance of promoting talent from within the club and highlighted the role that academy players can play in filling key positions within the squad. Laporta mentioned specific academy players, such as midfielder Marc Casadó, who have shown promise and may have the opportunity to contribute to the first team in the future. By focusing on developing talent internally, Barcelona aims to build a competitive squad capable of success in European competitions.
Joan Laporta’s recent comments shed light on the decision-making process behind the dismissal of Xavi Hernández and the appointment of Hansi Flick as the new Barcelona coach. The emphasis on maintaining belief in the squad, improving physical fitness, and strategic planning for the summer transfer window reflects the club’s commitment to success on and off the field. As Barcelona looks to the future under new leadership, the focus on retaining key players, promoting youth talent, and making targeted signings bodes well for the team’s prospects in domestic and international competitions.
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