Barcelona management ask Xavi to stay for one more season – report

Journalist Ivan San Antonio has sensationally reported via SPORT that club president Joan Laporta and vice-president Rafa Yuste have informally asked Xavi to stay at Barcelona for one more season.

The report adds that if the manager decides to change his mind between now and the end of the season, doors will be open for him to continue for another season.

In late January, following a string of poor results, Xavi announced that he would leave the Blaugrana at the end of the season but a lot has changed as Barcelona are growing to believe that defending their La Liga title is well within reach.

What’s the premise?

Ever since Xavi made his decision public, Barcelona have been looking for a replacement, someone who is capable of seamlessly continuing the ongoing efforts of the current coaching staff.

Deco, tasked with this responsibility, faces considerable challenges, yet there are individuals within the club who have not given up hope in Xavi. 

Xavi has done a satisfactory job at Barcelona. (Photo by PAU BARRENA/AFP via Getty Images)

While opinions within the Barça leadership may vary, a unanimous opinion persists that, should Xavi opt to reverse his decision and stay on, both Laporta and Yuste, would happily welcome such a choice.

Why do they want him to stay?

There are quite a few reasons why the management is still backing Xavi. First, everyone at the club has a deep satisfaction with his managerial performance.

The players, in particular, express their dedication to him, highlighting the unity they have achieved as a team. “The players are to death with Xavi,” a source was quoted as saying.

Moreover, Xavi’s knowledge of the club and understanding of its economic challenges contribute significantly to their support.

Secondly, the team is facing difficulties in finding a suitable replacement. While several names have been linked with the team, top candidates have declined the opportunity which has made the process a complex task