May 24, (THEWILL) – Barcelona has announced the departure of manager, Xavi Hernandez, after a disappointing season at the Catalan club. The decision comes despite recent reports indicating the 44-year-old could continue next season, having initially announced his intention to leave in the summer.
In an official statement on Friday, Barcelona said: “FC Barcelona wishes to thank Xavi for his work as coach, as well as for his inimitable career as a player and as team captain, and wishes him every future success in the world.” Xavi will lead Barcelona for the final time on Sunday, against Sevilla.
The statement added that the club would make an announcement regarding the new managerial structure in the coming days. Former Germany head coach Hansi Flick has emerged as the favourite to replace Xavi at the Camp Nou.
Xavi took over as Barcelona manager in November 2021, leading the team to a La Liga title in his first full season in charge. However, they failed to win any trophies this campaign and were eliminated from the UEFA Champions League at the group stage.
Flick, who guided Germany to the 2022 World Cup quarter-finals, is currently a free agent after leaving the national team post last year.
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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.
