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Xavi Admits Standards Slipped at Barcelona, Owning Final-Season Collapse

At a leadership forum, he accepted blame for the slump, signaling a patient approach to his next job.

Overview

  • Speaking at ESIC University, Xavi said he allowed standards to drop after early success, leading to poorer attitude, respect and effort from players.
  • He reflected that the decline culminated in a trophyless 2023–24 campaign, after which Barcelona dismissed him in 2024.
  • Xavi highlighted that his second season delivered La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup, contrasting the later downturn with his earlier resurgence.
  • Out of management for about 18 months, he indicated he is studying options and prioritizing a long-term project before returning.
  • Reports link him to high-profile roles such as Manchester United and say he rejected an approach from Spartak Moscow, which he deemed lacking in long-term ambition.