Controversy Unfolds Over Barcelona’s Squad List for Antwerp Clash: Xavi, Laporta, and Deco at Odds

Barcelona is embroiled in a squad list controversy, with initial omissions of key players Robert Lewandowski, Ilkay Gundogan, and Ronald Araujo for the Antwerp game causing a stir. Xavi had initially left them out to provide rest, but purported interventions from President Joan Laporta and club legend Deco led to their reinstatement.

Xavi attempted to downplay the situation in an interview with Marca, stating, “The squad was agreed upon with Deco and the president; we are in constant communication. The last decision is mine. I decide the list; I am the coach. You generate controversy where there is none. It makes no sense.”

Contradicting Xavi’s statement, Deco, speaking after the Antwerp game, asserted, “The call-ups are a matter for the coach. We did not come to a consensus on anything. There was a change of plans regarding travel, and we have decided that everyone should travel. It is an issue that was discussed for management reasons.”