Xavi could be sacked if Barcelona slip up against Napoli in Champions League – report

Earlier this year, Xavi Hernandez’s decision to leave Barcelona at the end of the season rocked the club and the players, forcing the board to immerse themselves in the search for a new manager.

Since then, efforts have been made to convince Xavi to take back his decision and continue at Camp Nou. Xavi has also received praise from fans and players alike, especially after Barcelona’s excellent form in La Liga.

However, following a disappointing goalless draw to Athletic Club, Barcelona are back to square one and look unlikely to catch up with Real Madrid, in the race for the league title.

That leaves Barcelona with the UEFA Champions League as the only avenue of silverware.

Xavi’s future at risk ahead of Napoli tie

Barcelona are currently locked in a tight contest with Napoli in the Round of 16. The two clubs drew the first leg 1-1 in Naples and will face off next week in Estadi Olimpico, with Barcelona requiring a win to get through to the next round.

Xavi’s job could be in danger if they lose to Napoli (Photo by CARLO HERMANN/AFP via Getty Images)

As Barcelona prepare for this encounter, Javi Miguel has come up with a rather intriguing update. The Spanish journalist claims that Xavi is running the risk of losing his job much prior to the season-ending.

It appears the Barcelona board is considering sacking Xavi if he fails to guide Barcelona past Napoli in the Round of 16 tie next week.

There are a few rationales behind this potential move from Barcelona – the first being that Barça will have to go through a trophyless campaign if they lose to Napoli.

More importantly, however, Barcelona are gearing up for an important summer ahead. But with Xavi already planning on leaving, it appears Barcelona are open to sacking him earlier in an attempt to temporarily install someone who will remain at the club going forward.