‘I Wanted to Stay’: Xavi Hernandez Shares His True Feelings After Brutal Barcelona Sack

• Xavi Hernandez has revealed his true feelings following his sack at Barcelona
• The outgoing manager was shown the exit door a month after his U-turn to stay
• He is set to be replaced by former Bayern Munich and Germany coach Hansi Flick

Xavi Hernandez has opened up about his emotions following his departure from FC Barcelona.

The Spanish manager concluded his three-year tenure as head coach in the Barcelona dugout on a positive note as La Blaugrana secured a 2-1 victory against Sevilla on Sunday, May 26.

Xavi, 44, was informed of his dismissal before the weekend, approximately a month after he reversed his decision to resign at the end of the 2023–2024 campaign.

The decision to part ways with the legendary midfielder comes after the Catalan giants persuaded him to remain as manager despite his initial plan to depart.

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Multiple reports from Spain suggest that Xavi's critical remarks about the club's financial situation and its impact on competing with rivals like Real Madrid, who secured La Liga and Super Cup titles this season, reportedly led to tensions with the board.

Xavi reveals true feelings after Barcelona sack

When asked about his feelings regarding his departure, the former Al Sadd manager expressed his desire to continue but stated that he respected the board's decision.

"Do I feel relieved? No, because I wanted to stay, but I've been told that I couldn't.” he said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.

Xavi was quick to point out that his 'innocent' comments about the club's current outlook might have led to his sacking.

“It seems like from day one, all my words have generated an earthquake. I don't really know why”.

Hansi Flick replaces Xavi as Barcelona coach

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As per SB Nation, Barcelona is poised to unveil Hansi Flick as Xavi's successor in the coming days.

The former Bayern Munich manager is expected to arrive on Monday and will be officially introduced as the club's new head coach.

Why Barca president wanted Xavi out

In an earlier publication, Sports Brief reported that Barcelona president, Joan Laporta, expressed disappointment with Xavi's remarks and expected a more optimistic outlook on Barcelona's prospects.

Laporta believes Xavi's public statements contradict discussions held with the board.

Despite Xavi defending his comments after the Almeria victory, the Barca chief is displeased, feeling the club's signings haven't been maximized under the tactician's leadership.