May 27, (THEWILL)- In his final game at the helm, Xavi Hernandez oversaw Barcelona’s defeat of Sevilla 2-1 on the last day of the 2023/2024 La Liga season. The result ensured the legendary midfielder ended his managerial stint at the Catalan giants on a high note.
Despite having little riding on the outcome, both sides showed plenty of attacking intent at the Ramon Sanchez Pizjuan. Barcelona took the lead through a typically stylish team goal finished acrobatically by Robert Lewandowski. Sevilla equalised before halftime via Youssef En-Nesyri, but the visitors regained their advantage after the break courtesy of youngster Fermín Lopez’s thumping strike.
In an end-to-end contest, chances fell at both ends, with the woodwork being struck on multiple occasions. However, Barcelona’s second-half control ultimately proved decisive as they saw out Xavi’s farewell game to record a fourth successive league victory.
Finishing 14th, it was a disappointing season for Sevilla, but Barcelona’s runners-up spot represents an improvement on recent campaigns under Xavi. Nevertheless, the iconic Spanish club’s ambitions extend beyond just securing a UEFA Champions League berth, paving the way for incoming coach Hansi Flick to aim higher next term.
The win provided Xavi with the perfect send-off after an eventful spell reviving Barcelona’s fortunes since taking over in November 2021. His successor Flick inherits a talented squad expected to challenge for major honours again next season.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
