Former Barcelona forward Gerard Deulofeu recently weighed in on Xavi Hernandez’s upcoming departure from Camp Nou and the search for his potential successor.
Xavi’s decision to leave the club at the end of the season came as a surprise to many. After taking over as manager in November 2021 following Ronald Koeman’s departure, Xavi led Barcelona to a La Liga title last season.
However, their performance in the 2023-24 campaign has been disappointing, raising questions about the team’s direction and potential trophy prospects.
Amid mounting pressure, Xavi announced its decision to step down. Deulofeu, who made 23 senior appearances for Barcelona, reflected on Xavi’s choice, stating (via Barca Universal):
“I was surprised when Xavi announced he was leaving at the end of the season, but I understand him.
If you don’t play well in one or two games, you hear the rumble. You have to appreciate the level of demand he puts on himself.”
When asked about potential replacements for Xavi at Camp Nou, Deulofeu mentioned:
“Xavi’s replacement? De Zerbi’s Sassuolo was already playing very well. The level of demand with Luís Enrique… he would fight for everything if he returned to Barça. But that is complicated.”
Barcelona has been strongly linked with a move for Brighton & Hove Albion manager Roberto De Zerbi. Additionally, some have suggested a potential return for former Barcelona manager Luis Enrique, who currently manages Paris Saint-Germain.
