Xavi has been sacked by Barcelona, ending a sensational run of events at the Catalan club.
The former midfielder had made clear his intention to resign from his position at the beginning of the season, before making a dramatic U-turn and deciding to stay.
“I am full of energy and desire.” he had said in April after deciding to remain in office. ‘We are analyzing what has happened to us this year to improve next season. We are looking forward to getting second place. I’m looking forward to it.’
Now, however, he has been fired by club president Joan Laporta, according to Marca, following a meeting with the 62-year-old coach after he publicly criticized the club’s financial situation.
Xavi guided Barca to their first LaLiga title last season but has struggled to replicate their domestic success this year as Real Madrid move to the top of the table.
The club’s difficult financial situation has put pressure on new signings to perform and a poor run of form at the start of the year convinced Xavi that he wanted to leave Barcelona.
More to follow.