BARCELONA have fired Xavi Hernandez as manager with one game left to complete the season.
Xavi had initially announced months ago that he would be leaving at the end of this campaign but he was persuaded to change his mind before this latest decision.
“Today Friday, FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta has informed Xavi Hernández that he will not be continuing as first team coach in the 2024-25 season,” Barcelona announced in an official statement today.
“The meeting happened at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper and was also attended by sporting vice-president Rafa Yuste, director of sport Anderson Luís de Souza, Deco, Xavi, Òscar Hernández and Sergio Alegre.
“FC Barcelona wishes to thank Xavi for his work as coach, as well as for his inimitable career as a player and as team captain, and wishes him every future success in the world.
“Xavi Hernández will be coaching the team for the last time in Sunday’s game away to Sevilla.
“During the course of the next few days, FC Barcelona will be making an announcement regarding the new first team structure.”
Xavi, who won numerous major trophies including the UEFA Champions League and LaLiga with Barcelona as a player, led them to the Spanish top flight title last year.
The 44-year-old former Spain midfielder joined as Barcelona manager in 2021 after a successful stint as Al Sadd of Qatar boss.
This season, under Xavi’s guidance, Barcelona are trophyless and will finish in second place in LaLiga behind Real Madrid, who are currently 12 points clear with one match to go.
