Xavi sends heartfelt message to fans after Barcelona exit
- Xavi's exit from Barcelona was confirmed on Friday
- Manager will remain in charge for the final game of the season against Sevilla
- Hansi Flick has agreed a deal to become the next manager
By Tom Gott
Xavi has thanked Barcelona fans for their support across a hectic period in charge of the club.
It was confirmed on Friday that Xavi would not remain in charge beyond this Sunday's game against Sevilla, after a disagreement with president Joan Laporta ultimately undid all the progress made when Xavi reversed his initial decision to step down in April.
Taking to social media after the news was announced, Xavi penned an emotional letter to those who have stood by him since he returned to Barca in November 2021.
"Dear fans, my time on the Barca bench will end on Sunday," he wrote on Instagram. "It's never easy to leave the club of your life, but I do it very proudly, after two and a half years at the head of a dressing room that has been like a second family.
"I want to thank the support and affection of the fans, who have always been by my side and have always shown me the same love as during my time as a player. From Sunday, I will be one more culer in the stands, either now at the Olympic Stadium or in a few months at Camp Nou. Because before I am a player or a coach, I am a Barcelona supporter and I only want the best for the club of my life, which will always have me at its disposal.
"I have worked with a group of fantastic players and with a spectacular staff. Thanks to all of them, we reached the goals set, culminating last year with a League and a Super Cup. This season things didn't go as we wanted, but we put our heads together and helped grow a new generation of young footballers from La Masia who inspire all of us Barcelona fans.
"Many thanks to all. To the fans, the players, the staff, the club employees, the president, the board of directors, the sporting directors, the media and everyone with whom I have shared the journey over these two and a half seasons.
"I wish the best to the club that I carry in my heart. Long live Barca."
Barcelona wasted little time in finding a replacement, ultimately striking a deal with long-time target Hansi Flick.
The former Germany boss was keen on the job when Xavi first planned on leaving in January and, after confirming he still wanted to make the move, a two-year contract was agreed.
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