Barcelona has terminated the contract of manager Xavi, with former Bayern Munich head coach Hansi Flick poised to succeed him.
Xavi’s final match in charge will be against Sevilla on Sunday, marking the conclusion of his tenure at the club.
The decision to dismiss Xavi was conveyed to him during a meeting with club president Joan Laporta and sporting director Deco, exactly one month after it was confirmed he would continue with the team.
Xavi, who initially expressed his intention to leave in January but was convinced to stay by Laporta in April, cited recent remarks regarding the club’s financial challenges as a potential factor in his departure.
Acknowledging his time at Barcelona, Xavi expressed pride in leading the team and declared his ongoing support as a devoted fan.
Barcelona conveyed gratitude to Xavi for his coaching contributions since assuming the role in 2021.
A “new structure” is forthcoming, with Flick primed to assume managerial responsibilities. Discussions with the 59-year-old commenced approximately two months ago, culminating in an agreement.
Flick, relieved from his duties as Germany’s national team coach in September 2023, previously achieved success with Bayern Munich, clinching a treble in 2020.
Forward Robert Lewandowski, who played under Flick at Bayern Munich, is familiar with his coaching style.
Xavi led Barcelona to the La Liga title in 2022-23 but faced challenges defending the crown this season, trailing Real Madrid by 12 points with one match remaining.
The team’s Champions League campaign concluded in the quarter-finals against Paris St-Germain.
Xavi, renowned for his illustrious playing career with Barcelona, transitioned to coaching after retiring in 2019.
Quique Sanchez Flores, Sevilla’s manager, criticized Barcelona’s handling of Xavi’s departure, expressing dismay at the treatment of club legends.
Despite the managerial transition, Xavi will oversee Barcelona’s final match of the season against Sevilla.
During his tenure, Xavi accumulated a 63% win ratio, overseeing 141 matches as Barcelona manager.
