Barcelona president Joan Laporta has sharply responded to recent critical comments from former coach Xavi Hernandez. Laporta emphasized his decision to sack Xavi in 2025 was justified, pointing out that Hansi Flick is achieving success and winning games with largely the same group of players that struggled under Xavi.
Barcelona president Joan Laporta breaks silence on Xavi’s explosive interview
Laporta contrasted the outlook under the two managers bluntly. He said:
“Xavi’s interview surprised me and hurt me. I understand that he’s hurt. With the same players, Flick wins… and Xavi didn’t.”
The Barca president continued:
“With Xavi I saw that we were going to lose and with Flick, that we are going to win”.
The escalating public feud stems from Xavi's explosive interview with La Vanguardia, where he accused Laporta of blocking Lionel Messi's potential return to Barcelona in 2023 despite apparent agreements and La Liga approval.
The former head coach claimed Laporta feared a "wage war" and power struggle with Messi, and further alleged that Laporta's advisor Alejandro Echevarría holds significant influence over club decisions, even suggesting the president was not fully truthful about the reasons for his dismissal. These claims have intensified scrutiny on Laporta's leadership amid ongoing Barcelona presidential elections.
Laporta dismissed the accusations, suggesting Xavi's bitterness stems from his sacking and possibly external political motivations aimed at undermining his re-election bid. He argued the results under Flick validate his tough choices, including parting ways with a club legend.
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