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8 months ago
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After an evening filled with twists and turns and confusion, it was confirmed last night that Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez will continue in his role beyond this season.
The 44-year-old reversed his decision to leave the club at the end of the ongoing campaign and is now staying put to see out his contract.
Earlier today, Barcelona president Joan Laporta, director Deco, and Xavi appeared in front of the press to officially confirm the decision and explain the reasons behind the U-turn.
After Laporta insisted that everyone at the club agreed that Xavi’s continuity was key to the stability of the project that the club are building, the manager himself explained his decision to change his mind.
“I am very much a Barça man. I am a club man and the most important thing is to think about the club. We met with the president, yesterday I put my position at his disposal. But I sense the confidence of the president, Deco, Bojan, the whole board…,” said Xavi.
“The support of the players has been very important. They have made me see that I have to continue. I believe that this project is not finished even though this season we may not win titles. The fans have also made me think that I have to continue. And above all that I see that I have the capacity.”
After making his speech, Xavi answered some questions from the media present, starting off by sending a message to the fans, saying:
“I think it’s [the fans] an important part. The desire we have, the trust has been mutual. There is harmony with Deco and of course with the team. I walk down the street and people encourage me and that makes you think again.
“The players have made me see that it’s not over, but above all the fans. We have generated a lot of enthusiasm and it’s a pity that it has gone unnoticed these last few days. I think we are close to achieving our objectives.”
When asked to explain his decision to change his mind after having been firm about wanting to leave in the past few months, Xavi replied:
“It was not an easy decision. In January I conveyed to the president, Deco and the board that it was the best thing for the club. Now the circumstances have changed. Yesterday we spoke about it very directly.
“I think the project is not finished and can be a winning one. I am convinced, with all the hope in the world. The players believe in it and I have changed my mind. It is wise to rectify.
“It’s a cocktail of reasons that make me continue, above all the confidence of the president, Deco and the players. It’s not a question of money or ego. I saw the confidence of everyone.”
Source: Mundo Deportivo
