Barcelona President Joan Laporta on Xavi U-turn – ‘This project needs stability and a Barcelonista reference’

Barcelona President Joan Laporta has told the press that the reason for their decision to continue with Xavi Hernandez at the helm is down to the need for stability and a reference point for the players, which he assured Xavi is.

Xavi announced he would be leaving in January, and has repeatedly told the press that he would not change his mind, but three days after damaging defeats to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid, all but ending their season, did just that.

Laporta spoke to the press with Xavi on Thursday, after the decision to continue with the Catalan coach was made public the previous night.

“Good morning everyone. I am pleased to announce that Xavi continues as coach of the Barca first team. He made some statements that he had considered leaving, but yesterday he conveyed to me his enthusiasm for the project and the team, to continue winning, now being more competitive. Some changes will be made to improve things. Since we met yesterday we were clear that it was good news. Stability is a maxim in successful projects and especially for this one.”

“We understand things in the same way. When we analyse things, our coach always thinks about the best for Barca. It is great news that Xavi continues. The team we have, which is consolidating, with very young people, needs this stability. “Xavi is a reference for young people and we can see it. Today I am especially happy. The board of directors, unanimously, have supported this decision.”