Xavi reveals whether he could change his mind over Barcelona exit

Xavi insists he will not change his mind about leaving Barcelona at the end of the season.

The Blaugrana head coach revealed back in January that he plans to step down this summer, citing stress as the main reason for his departure after repeatedly finding his credentials questioned by the media.

Since then, however, Barcelona have enjoyed a massive upturn in form, most recently beating Paris Saint-Germain 3-2 away from home in the first leg of the Champions League quarter-final.

Club officials have publicly urged Xavi to reconsider his decision, while midfielder Pedri also called for the boss to stay beyond this season, but Xavi has now confirmed he will not change his mind.

"This has happened to me before," Xavi reflected. "After the decision, there is more tranquility in the environment.

"The club, the journalists and I are calmer knowing that I have an expiration date. It was the correct decision. My decision is not going to change.

"We have gained peace of mind, and that's where we are. If [I hadn't decided to leave], it would have been more difficult. With the decision made, I was sure we would be like this. If not, it would have been a disaster, and I said that to the president. The important thing is the club, and I will leave for the club. If I hadn't decided, at this point we would not be competing."

Later asked whether there is anything that could change his mind, Xavi responded: "I have told you at every press conference, nothing has changed. Change the question if you want, here's your opportunity."

With Xavi standing firm on his decision to leave, Barcelona will need to find a new manager before the start of next season.

Sporting CP's Ruben Amorim had been touted as a candidate but his expensive release clause makes a deal highly unlikely, with Barcelona instead expected to pursue a manager who will be unemployed this summer to avoid the need to pay any compensation.

READ THE LATEST BARCELONA NEWS, TRANSFER RUMOURS & GOSSIP