Why Sacking Xavi Would Be a Mistake for Barcelona: A Closer Look
Barcelona’s recent defeat to Girona has led to calls for Xavi’s dismissal, but before hastily jumping to such a decision, let’s delve into why it might not be the wisest move for the club.
1. Too Early to Judge:
- Barcelona has only completed 21 games of a potential 50+ this season.
- Despite a seven-point gap in the league, there are 22 league games left to reshape the narrative.
- In the Champions League, Barca has progressed to the round of 16, with opportunities for glory ahead.
- The Copa Del Rey and Super Copa campaigns in January offer additional avenues for success.
2. Xavi’s Steady Progress:
- Xavi inherited a team in transition after Lionel Messi’s departure.
- In his first season, he secured the league and Super Copa titles, ending a title drought.
- Progress in the Champions League, reaching the round of 16 for the first time in three years.
- Xavi sees the team as a work in progress, requiring time to construct a competitive squad.
3. Replacement Dilemma:
- The question arises – who would replace Xavi if he were to be sacked?
- Barca B’s Rafa Marquez is a potential candidate, but readiness is a concern.
- Identifying a suitable replacement is crucial before considering such a significant move.
4. Financial Constraints:
- In September, Barcelona extended Xavi’s contract until 2025 with an option for further extension.
- Terminating Xavi’s contract prematurely would entail a substantial financial payout.
- Hiring a new coach would require additional financial resources, considering the €5m invested in Xavi.
- Amidst existing financial challenges, Barca may find it impractical to afford both a payout and a new coach.
Given these factors, it becomes evident that sacking Xavi might not be the pragmatic solution for Barcelona at this juncture. While challenges exist, patience and strategic planning could prove more beneficial for the club in the long run. The focus should be on providing the necessary support for Xavi to continue his work in shaping Barcelona’s future.
