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7 months ago
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As the season draws to a close, the possibility of Xavi Hernandez hitting the exit door once and for all grows stronger and stronger.
Despite Joan Laporta and co. doing their utmost to convince Xavi to continue as Barça’s head coach, tensions have emerged between both parties lately.
In addition to upsetting the president with his blunt statements in a press conference, the unease of several first-team players’ agents regarding Xavi has also been taken into account.
Players unhappy with Xavi’s ways
Indeed, SPORT has namedropped some players, who themselves, as well as their agents are not content with the coach’s management as of late.
Notably, Robert Lewandowski, who is now often substituted during crucial moments, has seen his importance wane in the pecking order, prompting concern.
Moreover, Joao Felix is also not on the best of terms with the manager. After all, he has seen his role diminish, occasionally warming up on the sidelines without being substituted.
Under the pump. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)Ronald Araujo’s status is similarly complicated. Following a difficult period defined by his expulsion from PSG, the previously untouchable player is now a possible transfer target for Bayern Munich.
Lastly, Raphinha is annoyed by the fact that he has consistently been the first to be replaced on the pitch.
In fact, it was recently reported that cracks have been enlarging between Raphinha and Xavi for a while now, especially after the pair had an argument against Valencia, which even cost the Brazilian a place in the team against Girona.
Xavi’s future up in the air
While the board has seemingly been dissatisfied with Xavi, the coach has conveyed optimism for the future with his recent quotes, claiming:
“The club reassures me and gives me hope and we continue with the same ambition. I understand all the noise, but it doesn’t change anything.”
As such, it remains to be seen if the 44-year-old’s future is still in Catalonia or an exit looms large.
