The quiet player who once dictated the rhythm of the midfield has now broken his silence. After three years of staying largely reserved about internal matters, Xavi Hernández chose a very sensitive moment to speak out in an interview with La Vanguardia and in doing so, he arguably dropped what many would describe as a bomb inside the corridors of FC Barcelona.Through this interview, Xavi made several strong claims about the failed return of Lionel Messi in 2023, while also revisiting the circumstances surrounding the end of his tenure as Barcelona’s coach. His comments also touched on figures close to club president Joan Laporta, including Alejandro Echevarría, turning the interview into more than just a sporting reflection, but a statement that has reignited both sporting and political debate around the club.
Xavi’s Version of the Messi Return
According to Xavi, Barcelona had made significant progress toward re-signing Messi shortly after his World Cup victory in 2022.The former coach explained that conversations had taken place and that Messi himself was enthusiastic about the idea of returning to the club. Negotiations reportedly even reached the stage of discussions with the player’s family.However, the move ultimately collapsed, with Xavi implying that the decision to halt the operation came from within the club’s leadership.
Laporta’s Response
Laporta responded strongly to Xavi’s comments, saying that the interview both surprised and hurt him.The Barcelona president defended the decisions made by the club’s leadership, insisting that being in charge of a club of Barcelona’s size often requires difficult choices.Laporta also suggested that the former coach’s statements may have been influenced by external political interests within the club, particularly with the upcoming presidential elections creating tension between different factions.
The Flick Comparison
Another controversial point raised by Laporta was the comparison between Xavi and current coach Hansi Flick.Laporta stated that he felt the team was heading toward defeat under Xavi, while he now believes Barcelona can win with Flick using the same group of players.The remark has sparked debate among supporters, as it directly contrasts the current project with the previous one led by the club legend.
Xavi on his Dismissal
In the same interview, Xavi also reflected on the way his time at FC Barcelona came to an end.The former coach suggested that the circumstances surrounding his dismissal were difficult to accept, especially considering the context in which he had taken charge of the team. Xavi explained that he always tried to act in the best interest of the club and insisted that his intention was to build a long-term sporting project.However, the sudden change in direction from the club’s leadership ultimately ended his tenure on the bench, a decision that still appears to weigh heavily on him.
The Alejandro Echevarría Controversy
Another controversial point raised in the interview involved Alejandro Echevarría, a figure known to be close to club president Joan Laporta. Xavi’s remarks about Echevarría sparked significant debate within the Barcelona environment, as the businessman has long been associated with the club’s internal structure and decision-making circles.The comments triggered a firm response from Laporta, who defended Echevarría and described him as a trusted figure who contributes to stability within the dressing room and maintains strong relationships with the team.
A Political Storm Behind the Interview?
Beyond the sporting debate, Xavi Hernández’s interview has also taken on a political dimension inside FC Barcelona. Club president Joan Laporta even suggested that the former coach may have allowed himself to be used in a wider narrative linked to opposition figures such as Victor Font. Whether intentional or not, the interview has once again shown how closely football and politics remain intertwined at Barcelona.
