Joan Laporta: “If It Wasn’t for Xavi, I Would Have Fired the Coach” From FC Barcelona

Dark clouds have hovered around FC Barcelona ever since Xavi announced his exit. The Spanish tactician, adamant about leaving Camp Nou at the end of the season, has plunged his childhood club into perilous depths. As the Catalans grapple to get over the fallout from their icon’s surprising decision, club president Joan Laporta makes an unexpected disclosure, stating he never ‘considered dismissing Xavi.’

However, his stance would have been different if there were any other coach instead of the former Al Sadd star. In an exclusive interview with RAC 1, Joan Laporta said, “If it wasn’t for Xavi, I would have fired the coach.” The president insists that the 44-year-old manager, himself, came to the board and announced his decision. “Xavi told me, ‘I’m resigning, and I propose to continue until the end of the season and give up the year left on my contract’. This dignifies him. He says it with such conviction that I had to listen to him.”

Reports said Barca’s poor performance would have seen Xavi get canned, a thought that actually never crossed Laporta’s mind. “At no time have I considered dismissing Xavi. We have always wanted him as Barça’s coach,” he said. Additional reports showed that even if Xavi wished to leave, he was urged not to make his decision public. Yet it seems Barcelona is ready for what is about to come. “The club has a sports structure that is ready for any emergency. The entire sports commission and the board accepted Xavi’s decision,” added Laporta. 

While it’s unclear what Barcelona fans have in mind, Barcelona seems to have accepted Xavi’s exit. In fact, they already have a replacement lined up.

Joan Laporta hints at the potential replacement of Xavi 

Following Xavi’s announcement, countless replacements have been linked to take over the Spaniard’s position. Among them is the current German national team manager, Hansi Flick. When asked to express his thoughts, Laporta said, “You should ask Deco about that. I have not spoken to any coaches. The possibilities are quite limited. It must be a coach with a certain track record, unless we make a more imaginative decision.”

READ MORE: “Xavi Is Leaving Because…” – Real Reason Behind FC Barcelona Boss’ Departure Announcement Revealed- Reports

Interestingly, Laporta also hinted that Rafa Márquez, who is currently coaching Barcelona’s B team, won’t sign for the job. He stated, “Rafa Márquez is not ruled out. He is training at home and knows the squad,” he added. Nevertheless, for now, nothing is certain about who will overtake Xavi’s position. Whatever it may be, the upcoming months are crucial for Barcelona. 

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