Xavi Informs Close Associates of a Surprise Decision

Spanish media reports confirmed today, Tuesday, that Xavi Hernandez, the coach of Barcelona, does not guarantee his continuation at the head of the coaching staff until the end of the current season. Xavi had previously announced in a press conference that he would not continue as coach of Barcelona for the next season. According to the Spanish program "El Chiringuito," Xavi has informed his close associates that if Napoli succeeds in eliminating Barcelona from the Champions League today, he will immediately leave the coaching staff. The Spanish program indicated that the Spanish coach has not yet communicated this decision to the Barcelona management. It clarified that the Barcelona management is impressed with the Italian Roberto De Zerbi and the German Hans Flick, but if Xavi leaves his position early, they will have to appoint Rafa Marquez, the coach of the reserve team, until the end of the season. The Spanish program mentioned that if Marquez has a successful tenure this season as Xavi's replacement, the management might retain his services for the next season.