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4 weeks ago
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Not long after Xavi Hernandez’s departure, a few instances of mismanagement from the Spaniard and his team started coming to light.
Xavi’s light treatment of players in training, in particular, has raised many eyebrows. It appears the former Barcelona manager did not put enough pressure on the players in training, with Robert Lewandowski, among the players, criticising his methods.
Players agree team’s physical deficiencies
A recent report from MARCA has offered an update on Barcelona’s outlook on physical preparations heading into the new season.
While acknowledging that new coach Hansi Flick promises to bring forth significant changes to the club’s training regime, the report revealed that several Barcelona stars agreed there were deficiencies in the team’s physical conditions under Xavi.
Xavi’s lenient methods were not approved by many (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)
This goes in line with Joan Laporta’s recent comments over Barcelona players getting tired after the hour mark and how the team did not have the energy to compete for the entirety of ninety minutes.
This also goes in line with an earlier report which revealed that some players were not happy with Xavi’s training regime at Barça.
The players were left surprised that Xavi used to hand them breaks frequently and there was an overall lack of intensity. This even led to criticism from star striker Lewandowski.
The report from MARCA cites a source inside the Barcelona camp who states, “Here in Barcelona you train for an hour and then go home.”
Although things improved during the latter half of the campaign, most players agree physical deficiency was a major concern for Barcelona under Xavi.
Sea of change under Flick?
All of that will likely change as Hansi Flick looks to stamp his authority in Barcelona over the next few weeks.
The German is likely to bring forth substantial changes in the support staff and brings with him a fitness expert, who can help Barcelona players return to optimal conditions.
