Robert Lewandowski: Why Xavi Wanted Barcelona to Sell Veteran Striker

• Xavi Hernandez was set to continue as the manager of FC Barcelona
• However, the 44-year-old could be cast out at the end of the season
• The legendary midfielder has been replaced by German gaffer Hansi Flick

The reasons behind Barcelona president Joan Laporta’s decision to sack Xavi are gradually coming to light.

Xavi 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.

It is now evident that the primary cause was the ideological conflict between management and the board.

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Xavi planned to remove several players from the team in June, including Robert Lewandowski.

A recent Sport report indicates that the manager's opposition to the Polish striker played a major role in his dismissal.

Xavi wanted a new striker

The reports further suggest that Xavi’s staff felt Lewandowski had reached the end of his tenure at Barcelona and, after two successful seasons, was no longer suitable for the project.

They pushed for a striker with more energy, stamina, and intensity in the final third, attributes Lewandowski, at 36, could no longer provide.

Tthey wanted a player who could contribute not only in scoring but also in off-the-ball movements and overall buildup play. The manager’s stance on Vitor Roque appears puzzling, as Xavi completely dismissed the board’s young No. 9 signing, giving him minimal opportunities.

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The empathy factor

Another major reason Xavi opposed Lewandowski’s continuity was the Polish star’s attitude towards younger players, per Football Espana.

Per the management, the veteran striker lacked the empathy necessary to mentor and guide younger players. This attitude was apparent during matches, where Lewandowski frequently expressed dissatisfaction with the decisions made by younger teammates.

However, with Hansi Flick's arrival, Lewandowski might greatly benefit. Having previously collaborated with Flick at Bayern Munich, the Polish forward is anticipated to play a central role in Barcelona's attack next sea

Why Laporta 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.