Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has agreed to a one-year contract extension that will keep him at the helm of the Catalan giants until 2025. The news comes after weeks of speculation and meetings between Xavi and club officials, during which the manager set unspecified conditions that were agreed to by the club. The decision is a major boost for Barcelona, who have struggled for consistency this season but remain in contention for the Europa League title. Xavi’s commitment to the club and the promise of squad improvements have given fans hope for a brighter future.
Xavi spent most of Wednesday in meetings with Barca officials and agreed to honor the last year of his contract. The club vice-president, Rafa Yuste, confirmed the news to reporters outside Laporta’s home in Barcelona later on Wednesday, stating that “Xavi will continue and is very excited, there is unanimity in the club’s board that he should continue.”
Xavi’s decision to stay comes after he initially announced his intention to step down in January, citing the pressure and demands of the job. However, after a series of positive results, including an unbeaten run of 13 games, Xavi appears to have had a change of heart.
Barcelona face significant challenges, including their massive wage bill and a €1.6bn Camp Nou stadium renovation project. These issues could force Xavi to make difficult decisions in the transfer market, as the club may be forced to sell key players to meet LaLiga’s financial control requirements. Despite these challenges, Xavi’s commitment to the club and the club’s promise of squad improvements have given fans hope for a brighter future.
