NEW DELHI: Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez has announced his decision to step down from his position at the end of the current season, citing the challenging and "cruel" nature of his role following a disappointing 3-5 defeat to Villarreal in
La Liga
on Saturday.
Speaking to reporters, Xavi revealed, "On June 30, I will leave the club. It's a decision I have taken with the president, with the staff."
The decision comes after recent setbacks, including elimination from the Copa del Rey and a defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final, leaving Barcelona 10 points behind league leaders Real Madrid.
"The feeling of being Barca coach is cruel, unpleasant, it feels like people lack respect for you a lot of the time," Xavi expressed, adding that the toll on his mental health and morale has led him to believe there is "no sense in continuing."
Xavi, who took over as coach in November 2021, had led Barcelona to success last season with a Spanish Super Cup and league title. However, this season has seen defensive vulnerabilities, with Saturday's defeat marking the first time Barcelona has conceded five goals at home in La Liga since 1963.
"I have the feeling that I am doing the right thing, that I am acting with common sense. I think the club needs a change of dynamics; the dynamic is very negative," Xavi explained, emphasizing that even winning the
Champions League
wouldn't alter his decision.
Acknowledging the recent struggles, Xavi stated, "I am more optimistic than ever with this change of dynamic... we'll go for La Liga, it's very difficult, but we will fight."
Players, including midfielder Frenkie de Jong and defender Ronald Araujo, expressed their confidence in the technical team, attributing recent challenges to the players rather than the coach.
"There is full confidence in the technical team; it's the fault of the players," de Jong commented.
Xavi thanked Barcelona's president, Joan Laporta, for his confidence during his tenure, and despite the challenges, he remains optimistic about the team's chances to win trophies this season.
(With inputs from AFP)
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