A Xavi Hernandez’s decision to stay at Barcelona took many people by surprise in Spain.
Carlo Ancelotti, however, appears not to be one of them. Speaking to the press this Thursday (25) before the duel of Real Madrid Against the Real Sociedadfor the 33rd round of LALIGAthe Italian pointed out that the last word on whether or not to leave the Catalan rival was up to the coach alone.
“We have to respect changes of opinion,” said the coach in a press interview. “How many times have I changed my mind? Many during my career. It is legal and allowed to do so, there was nothing written.”
“I think Xavi has done a great job at Barcelona and knows the club very well. I believe it is the right decision.”
The option to remain in charge of the team was made by the coach on Wednesday.
Xavi Hernández has agreed to remain as Barcelona coach until the end of his contract in 2025, a source confirmed to ESPNreversing his decision to step down at the end of the season.
The 44-year-old announced in January that he would step down at the end of the season after a run of poor results, saying the job had also taken its toll on him mentally.
However, after a meeting with president Joan Laporta this Wednesday (24), the former Spanish player decided to fulfill his contractual commitment with the Catalan club.
Xavi was appointed Barça coach in 2021, leading the team to their first LALIGA title in four years last season and signing a contract extension until June 30, 2025, with the option of a further year last September.
