Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández has announced that he will step down at the end of the 2023-24 season.
The former Barcelona and Spain midfielder took charge in November 2021 after leaving Qatari club Al Sadd.
Despite guiding Barcelona to the Spanish title in his first full season in charge in 2022-23, the recent 5-3 home defeat by Villarreal has left them 10 points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid.
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Xavi, who won 25 honors during his playing career at Barcelona, will officially step down on June 30, despite having a year left on his contract.
The decision was made following talks with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, Vice-president Rafa Yuste, and sporting director Deco.
“I think the club needs a change of dynamic,” said Xavi.
“For the good of the players, I believe that they will free themselves. We play with a lot of tension. For the good of the board of directors, it is best that I leave. I will give my best. I think all of that will help the dynamic change. This is the message I would like to give. I think I am doing the right thing.”
Xavi, who had previously stated he would “pack his bags” if his players lost faith in him, cited the toll the job has taken on his mental health as a reason for stepping back.
“In Barcelona, you always feel like you’re not valued, you’re mistreated – that’s how the club works,” he said.
“From a mental-health level, it’s tough too. I am a positive guy, but the battery levels keep running out – and at some point, you realize there’s no point in staying.”
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Xavi hopes that by announcing his departure now, it will “de-escalate” the situation for the rest of the season, which includes a Champions League last-16 tie against Napoli next month.
“I wouldn’t change my decision even if I won the Champions League. I will tell the players tomorrow. I’m the most responsible one, so the players will finally feel free now,” he added.
