Xavi Hernandez has been speaking for the first time since it became official that he would be leaving Barcelona at the end of the season. Sunday’s trip to Sevilla will be the final match of his 2.5-year spell in charge of the Catalan giants.
Despite the nature of his dismissal, which has come about just weeks after he was begged to stay by Joan Laporta and co, Xavi remained classy about the Barcelona hierarchy when speaking to the media for one of his final times as manager. He only had good words for Laporta, Deco and the rest – quotes via MD.
“I’m grateful to the president and I haven’t had any problems with the leaders. I’m a club man and I’ve adapted to the circumstances. The president gave me his reasons and I have no choice but to accept his decision.”
Xavi also confirmed that he intends to take a break from management after the trip to the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan, with no plans to seek out an immediate return to the dugout elsewhere.
“I haven’t thought about it. Now I think I need a break. I love this club and hopefully it will give me the opportunity to work again in the future at the club of my life.
“I already said I’d rather take a break. From here, listen and see what the future holds. A while resting – I’m sure I need it.”
One of the big issues that has been speculated upon in recent days is whether Xavi will forego the compensation owed to him, which if accepted, would affect Barcelona’s financial ability in the upcoming transfer window. Fortunately for club bosses, Xavi has confirmed that he does not intend to take any payments.
“There won’t be a problem on this, I said it before. I will keep my word.”