Two sources familiar with the situation revealed on Wednesday that Coach Xavi Hernández has decided to remain with Barcelona for another year, reversing his earlier plan to leave at the season’s end.
They requested anonymity because they weren’t allowed to discuss the agreement publicly. The club is expected to announce the decision officially on Thursday, with club president Joan Laporta providing further details.
Reports suggest that Xavi had extensive discussions with Laporta and sports director Deco before agreeing to stay.
This change of heart comes after Barcelona’s recent loss to Real Madrid, which significantly dampened their title hopes. Following that defeat, Barcelona is now 11 points behind Real Madrid with six games remaining in La Liga.
Just a week before, Barcelona was knocked out of the Champions League by Paris Saint-Germain.
Xavi had initially announced his decision to leave at the end of the season after a loss to Villarreal in January, compounded by earlier exits from the Copa del Rey and the Spanish Super Cup.
Xavi explained that he made the decision initially to reduce stress and tension for both the team and himself.
He noted that after the announcement, there was a positive response from the squad, which was what he had hoped for. Despite his earlier stance, Xavi had been firm about his intention to leave at the season’s end.
Barcelona is currently aiming to maintain its position in second place in La Liga, holding a two-point lead over third-placed Girona. The team’s upcoming match is against Valencia at home on Monday.
