https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH
HomeChampions LeagueJoan Laporta's Decision on Xavi's Future After Barcelona's Recent Setback

Joan Laporta’s Decision on Xavi’s Future After Barcelona’s Recent Setback

Date:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH

Barcelona Manager Xavi’s Position Safe Despite Champions League Defeat

Barcelona manager Xavi
The Spanish coach is under increasing pressure at Camp Nou (Picture: Getty)

Xavi’s position at Barcelona is not under immediate threat despite Wednesday’s embarrassing defeat to Antwerp in the Champions League, according to reports in Spain.

Barcelona’s Recent Performance

The Catalan giants, who were beaten 4-2 by Girona at the weekend, fielded a strong team in Belgium despite already being assured of top spot, though they were on the receiving end of a 3-2 defeat.

Antwerp took the lead after just two minutes and Barcelona had to equalize twice to level the game. However, Marc Guiu’s late goal was cancelled out by George Ilenikhena in stoppage time, resulting in a victory for the previously winless Belgians.

Barca president Joan Laporta insisted on Xavi playing his best XI to secure the €2.8 million (£2.4m) prize money for a group stage victory due to the club’s financial struggles.

However, the team’s lackluster performance has raised concerns about Xavi’s future at the club.

Laporta’s Faith in Xavi

According to Spanish newspaper Sport, Laporta still has faith in Xavi and has no immediate plans to replace him. The Barca hierarchy believes that Xavi deserves an opportunity to turn things around.

Barcelona lose to Antwerp
Barcelona were stunned by Antwerp on Wednesday night (Picture: Getty)

Expectations for Improvement

Barcelona’s form and performances need to improve significantly, and the situation will be reassessed at the end of January. Laporta and sporting director Deco have highlighted certain aspects of Xavi’s management that need addressing, particularly in terms of discipline within the squad.

There have also been questions about Xavi’s team selections, including the continued presence of certain “untouchable” players.

Xavi has been encouraged to focus on playing players in their proper positions, with specific changes expected in the defense.

The club expects a response from the team in their upcoming match against Valencia, as they have a favorable run of fixtures in the coming weeks.

Currently in fourth place in La Liga, Barcelona is seven points behind leaders Girona and five points behind Real Madrid. However, the club does not feel there is a reason to panic at this point, as the gap to the top is still manageable.

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CS3W61MH

Related articles:

Arsenal’s £51million Midfielder Set to Replace Struggling Star

The Gunners midfielder has hardly featured this season.

Arteta Gains Valuable Insights from Klopp’s Triumph – A Tale of Inspiration

Discover the valuable insights Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta gained from Jurgen Klopp's successful tenure at Liverpool. As he prepares to face Klopp's team, Arteta acknowledges the need to emulate Klopp's trophy success in order to take Arsenal to the next level. Explore how Arteta admires Klopp's clear identity and determination, and his desire to build a similar identity at Arsenal. Learn about the importance of everyone having the same intention and demanding excellence from each other, as Arteta aims for consistent trophy victories like Klopp's Liverpool. This clash between Arsenal and Liverpool is not only a battle between top teams, but also a tale of inspiration and aspiration for Arteta and his team.

Villa Dominates Sheff Utd with Convincing Victory, Secures Top Four Spot

Villa Dominates Sheff Utd with Convincing Victory, Secures Top Four Spot | Aston Villa's masterclass performance against Sheffield United secures their place in the Premier League's top four. Read about their dominant 5-0 victory and the mounting struggles of the Blades, who are facing relegation. Find out how Ollie Watkins and Leon Bailey shined for Villa, while Sheffield United's dismal performance leaves them in a desperate situation. Can Villa maintain their top-four push? Will Sheffield United turn their fortunes around?

Mbappe Allegedly Chooses New Club, Yet PSG Remains Uninformed

Discover the latest on Kylian Mbappe's future as he allegedly chooses to leave PSG and join Real Madrid. Despite reports and optimism from La Liga president Javier Tebas, PSG remains uninformed of Mbappe's decision. The potential move would be a significant blow to PSG, as Mbappe is considered one of the greatest players in world football. Stay tuned for updates on this potentially massive transfer.

Why Chelsea’s Fixture Won’t Be Rescheduled Ahead of Carabao Cup Final

Find out why Liverpool's fixture was rescheduled just days before the Carabao Cup final while Chelsea's remained unchanged. Discover the broadcasting agreements and European competition factors that influenced the decision. Despite the challenges, Liverpool remains focused on having all their players in good shape for the final.

Latest News:

“Thiago Silva’s Wife and Chelsea Fans Call for Mauricio Pochettino’s Departure after Loss”

Meta Description: Thiago Silva's wife and Chelsea fans are calling for Mauricio Pochettino's departure after a humiliating 4-2 defeat against Wolves. As the team languishes in the bottom half of the Premier League table, fans are questioning Pochettino's tactics and decision-making. The pressure is mounting, and all eyes are on Stamford Bridge to see how the club will address the growing discontent.

“Speed Gates: Elevate Your Training and Settle the Fastest Debate”

Elevate your training or simply challenge friends and family to settle the debate on who is the fastest. The Speed Gates are designed to track and record speeds up to 50 yards in distance. The included timer records the most recent 50 times to easily review your progress or how you stack up to the team. Ideal for solo training in the backyard or coaches looking to add some fun to their practices. Perfect for timing your 40-yard dash, working to get from the box to first base faster, beating an opponent to the ball, or anything in between. Whether you are training indoors or outdoors the timer is built to be visible in all conditions. Simply set up a start gate and finish gate using the light indicators on the sensors to ensure they are connected. Never settle for yesterday’s best. Set includes 4 cones, 4 sensors, timer and carry bag for easy transportation to and from the field. Bring the race home or to a field near you.

Arsenal’s £51million Midfielder Set to Replace Struggling Star

The Gunners midfielder has hardly featured this season.

Lakers Defense Stuns Knicks, Fueling ‘Jekyll and Hyde’ Season

Discover how the Los Angeles Lakers stunned the New York Knicks with a remarkable defensive performance, snapping the Knicks' nine-game winning streak. Led by Anthony Davis and LeBron James, the Lakers showcased their unpredictable season, highlighting their "Jekyll and Hyde" nature. Learn about the Lakers' defensive masterclass, aggressive defensive tactics, and the impact of injuries on their performance. Find out how they plan to address their inconsistency and improve their chances of success as the trade deadline approaches.

Getafe Manager Supports Greenwood Amid Alleged Bellingham Clash

"Controversial Clash between Mason Greenwood and Jude Bellingham: Getafe Manager Stands Firm, Calls for Respect Amid Ongoing Investigation. Find out the latest on the alleged slur and the actions taken by the Spanish Football Federation. A reminder of the importance of respect and integrity in football."