“No thanks” – former Barcelona coach issues response when asked about Joan Laporta

Xavi Hernandez appeared in Spanish colours this Saturday to play against AFE veterans, in a charity match supported by RFEF.

Xavi was part of the legendary 1999 Spanish U-20 team which won the U20 FIFA World Cup, which, to this date, remains Spain’s only international triumph in this category.

The same team appeared against AFE veterans in a charitable match at the Sant Antoni Municipal Football Field in Ibiza.

Xavi’s cold response to Laporta

During the match, journalist David Bernabeu approached Xavi to talk about the game while requesting a message to Barcelona president Joan Laporta.

While the Barcelona legend did comment on the game and the support from fans, he simply refused to speak about Laporta.

“For President Laporta, is there a message or no message?” asked Bernabeu (h/t Diario SPORT). In response, Xavi said, “No, thanks.”

Safe to say, Xavi’s muted response to the Laporta question spoke a thousand words as the Spaniard’s tenure as Barcelona coach did not end on the best of notes.

Laporta’s dissatisfaction with Xavi’s training program and his public comments played a key role in Xavi’s exit. The Barcelona president even explained his decision in a recent interview.

In the interview, Laporta pointed out the lack of physical and mental capacity by the Barcelona players, amongst other things.

Nevertheless, it is not hard to see why Xavi might feel betrayed by the Barça management.