Xavi challenges Barcelona president to explain sack reasons

Xavi has challenged Barcelona president Joan Laporta to reveal the reasons behind his upcoming exit.

Less than one month after reversing his decision to step down this summer, Xavi was relieved of his duties on Friday after public criticism of the club's current situation angered Laporta.

Xavi will, however, remain in charge for the final game of the season against Sevilla on Sunday, before which he sat down in front of the media for his usual pre-match press conference.

Asked what explanation Laporta had given him for his decision, Xavi insisted: "I think it is a question that he has to answer because the reasons are his, not mine. He has to explain the reasons himself.

"The president has told me the reasons why he believes the club needs a change of direction and I can only respect it. From here on, I am a club man. We shook hands, a hug, we wished each other luck. And, from here on, I will be just another fan.

"They have decided that the club needs a change of direction. I have to accept it, respect it and wish them the best. I was still motivated, excited and with enthusiasm intact. Obviously, I wanted to change some things. But it could not be."

Xavi went on to confirm that he has yet to agree the terms of his compensation, but stressed: "Don't talk about this, this won't be a problem."

Despite his disappointment towards the decision, Xavi insisted he has no hard feelings towards those in charge and even admitted he would be open to returning to Camp Nou in future.

"I'm fine," he said. "Obviously, they have been difficult days. They have not been easy days, but I have a clear conscience.

"I am proud, happy. I've been here for two and a half years. It hasn't been an easy time. But I think we can be proud of the work we have done. From here on, I have a clear conscience. We have given everything. We have tried to be club men. We have understood things that were complicated by the club's situation. But we won two titles, successes in important matches... The experience has been spectacular, the learning is tremendous. I am proud of the experience. It has been an honour and a pleasure to be Barca coach.

"I would like to return. Why not? I like being at Barca and working for Barca. I don't close the door and I hope we have the opportunity to return. You never imagine this farewell, but I am a coach and it can happen. I have to respect it, try to understand it and that's it."

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