Xavi: Messi’s Potential Return to Barcelona Uncertain, Hinges on His Intentions

• Xavi analysed Barcelona's situation in the run-up to the game against Valladolid
• The manager, also a legend of the club, also clarified his stance on racism
• Xavi also discussed key factors to be considered if Lionel Messi was to return

Xavi Hernandez has assessed Barcelona's state of play ahead of the champions’ round of 36 La Liga Santander clash against Valladolid in Pucela.

The Barcelona coach made it clear that he will be making rotations, but has been categorical in confirming the Catalans will go for the victory.

According to Marca, he also referred to - among other issues - racism in football and the possible return of Lionel Messi.

Talking about the upcoming game against Valladolid, which means a lot more for the home side as they fight relegation, Xavi told the press:

"What happens, in these matches, is that those who are most in need get the result. Like Espanyol against Rayo, or us against Real Sociedad. But we're going to win, we'll put out the best possible team to get the three points.

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The Barca manager said there could be no doubt the club wanted to finish strong.

"We want to finish with a good feeling. La Real are a Champions League team."

Xavi on Vini's racist abuse

One of the major topics in Spanish football right now is racism, after Real Madrid's Vinicius Jr was abused from the stands once again on Sunday night while away at Valencia.

"Unfortunately. It's a pity. It's sad and regrettable that it will happen in 2023. To condemn it, there are no shields, players or clubs. It has to be condemned, like what happened yesterday to Vinicius in Valencia. Valencia are already doing it. Racism must be eradicated once and for all."

Xavi went further to say that games should be stopped in the event of racist abuse.

"I have always thought so. Insults have been accepted, it's the only sport where it's accepted. If there is an insult, then don't play. It's a message to the president of La Liga, the Federation. I don't have to put up with an insult.

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The Barcelona manager believes there has to come a point where 'enough is enough'.

"He insults a worker; he throws a brick at your head. I don't have to put up with all kinds of insults and impudence during my working hours... It's an educational issue. We have to educate people that you don't go to the stadium to insult people. I don't go to the theatre to insult. It's not good for society."

Xavi discusses Lionel Messi's return

Another topic more specific to Barcelona was the potential of Lionel Messi returning to the club in the summer.

"It's up in the air," Xavi stated. "It depends on a lot of things, there's not much more I can say. He's a spectacular footballer; I'm friends with him. Let's see if it can happen. It also depends on his intentions."

As reported earlier by acclaimed Italian journalist, Fabrizio Romano via social media, Messi's future lies away from the French capital.

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It remains to be seen how Barcelona's summer unfolds, given their lingering financial constraints.

Vinicius to consider EPL move?

Earlier, Sports Brief reported on Vinicius being urged to leave Madrid in favour of a move to the Premier League.

The Brazilian winger was once again subject to racist chants in Los Blancos' previous La Liga tie against Valencia.

With the summer window around the corner, many clubs will be keeping tabs on whatever decision Vini makes.