Xavi Hernandez, the iconic former player and current coach of FC Barcelona, has shared insights into his ongoing connection with the club and his successor, Hansi Flick. In a recent interview with Athletic, Xavi opened up about a two-hour conversation he had with Flick, who took over the first-team coaching role this season. During their discussion, Flick expressed his gratitude for Xavi's contributions to the team, highlighting the positive mentality instilled in the players under Xavi's guidance.
“We have a very good team that is only going to get better because it’s so young,” Xavi recounted. “Hansi came here to see me and we spoke for two hours. He said, ‘Thank you so much. What you helped create here means I’m happy. The players train hard and they get some of their mentality from you’.” This acknowledgment from Flick underscores the solid foundation Xavi built during his tenure.
However, Xavi also addressed the challenges that come with being at Barcelona, especially regarding media narratives and board expectations. “It can be difficult in Barcelona. If you say something positive about the current coach, that’s negative toward the former coach—me. It doesn’t need to be like that,” he explained. Xavi emphasized the importance of maintaining a respectful relationship with his predecessors, crediting Ronald Koeman for his role in developing young talents like Gavi and Balde, who are now pivotal to the team's success.
Looking back at his coaching journey, Xavi expressed pride in giving debuts to promising players such as Lamine Yamal and Marc Casado Cubarsi. “Lamine is a genius. He will become the best,” he stated, showcasing his belief in the young talent coming through the ranks.
Barcelona is currently enjoying a stellar season under Flick's leadership, having already secured the Super Cup and the Copa del Rey. They sit atop La Liga with just four games remaining, a position that reflects the team's hard work and resilience. Xavi, who remains a passionate supporter of the club, shared his emotional connection to the team. “It was too emotional for me because I was a supporter too. It’s different for Hansi. He’s not speaking Spanish; he’s not a Barcelona supporter,” he said.
As Flick navigates his new role, Xavi offered advice to help him cope with the pressures of coaching at such a high-profile club. “Don’t follow anything in the media or you will go crazy. Just concentrate on the team because if you are from here, you suffer a lot,” he advised, reflecting on his own experiences.
In the same interview, Xavi reminisced about his playing days, particularly the thrilling Champions League finals against Manchester United. He recalled the 2011 final at Wembley, where he felt frustrated at halftime, believing Barcelona deserved a larger lead than the 1-1 scoreline. “I was really angry. We deserved to be ahead for 3-0 and it was 1-1. I destroyed a bottle of water and shouted: ‘It’s impossible!’” His passion for the game was evident as he described the joy of playing in such significant matches.
Reflecting on the 2009 final in Rome, Xavi noted the challenges Barcelona faced in the opening minutes against a strong United side. “They were fantastic in the first 20 minutes. We suffered a lot. If United had scored, it would have changed everything,” he recounted, illustrating the high stakes of those encounters. However, he also highlighted how Barcelona took control after Samuel Eto'o's goal, ultimately leading to their victory.
Xavi's love for football remains strong, as he frequently analyzes matches, including those of Atalanta, a team he admires for their tactical approach. “I might watch four Atalanta matches in a row. I enjoy analyzing teams,” he revealed, showcasing his ongoing commitment to the sport.
Despite his success, Xavi is aware of the criticisms that can accompany coaching at a top club. He referenced the scrutiny faced by Carlo Ancelotti, who has won 30 trophies over the last decade yet continues to receive criticism. “It’s not fair. He has won so much, and yet he is criticized as if he hasn’t won anything,” Xavi said, echoing sentiments of many in the football community who recognize the pressures faced by coaches today.
As for his future, Xavi expressed a desire for a long-term project, ideally in the Premier League, where he believes the passion for football is unparalleled. “I would like a four-year project where I can work and realize a vision,” he stated, hinting at his ambitions beyond Barcelona.
As the current La Liga season progresses, the focus remains on Barcelona's quest for further glory under Hansi Flick. With a blend of youth and experience, the team is poised for a bright future, and Xavi's legacy continues to influence the club as it navigates this exciting chapter.
