Turnaround at Barcelona

Xavi’s decision to stay: “The circumstances have changed”

After resigning from his post, Barcelona coach Xavi has explained his change of heart with changed circumstances. "At the time, I thought it would be best for the club to leave. But circumstances have changed and now I think it's best for Barça to carry on," said the 44-year-old at a media event on Thursday. He still believes in the project. "It was never a question of ego or money", Xavi made clear.

At the end of January, Xavi explained that he wanted to make room for a necessary change of course by retiring on June 30. He also wanted to have more time for his family. Now everything has changed. After the meeting with club president Joan Laporta, his vice-president Rafa Yuste and sports director Deco on Wednesday, Xavi backed out. The decorated ex-professional, who celebrated great success with the Catalans as a player, now wants to fulfill his contract, which runs until 2025, after all.

"I'm a big Barça fan. The fact that we get on very well with the president and the board was just as important as the support of the players," said Xavi. He had felt the strength and confidence of the club. The fans' reactions had also changed his mind. "I would like to thank them for their support and affection."

"He always thought about the club"
Laporta was very pleased with the coach's change of heart. It is "very good news that Xavi is staying on", said the club boss. "He always looks out for Barça's interest." Laporta also noted that Xavi was not in it for the money. "He always thought about the club."

FC Barcelona, who are in massive financial difficulties, lost 3-2 at Real Madrid last weekend and thus lost their last chance in the title race. In the Champions League, the club had previously been knocked out in the quarter-finals against Paris Saint-Germain. The club has high hopes of returning to the Camp Nou, which is currently being renovated, in November.

In Madrid, the news from the arch-rivals' camp was well received. Real coach Carlo Ancelotti said: "Xavi has done a good job at Barcelona, he knows the club and I think his decision to stay is the right one." It is legitimate to change your mind, said the Italian. "I have also changed my mind many times during my career."