Why Did Xavi Leave Barcelona?

By Anna Duncan

Xavi Hernandez is one of the most celebrated footballers in the world. He spent 17 years at Barcelona, where he won countless titles and accolades.

Xavi was a vital cog in Barcelona’s midfield, and his departure from the club left many fans bewildered. So, why did Xavi leave Barcelona? Let’s take a closer look.

The Beginning of the End

Xavi’s departure from Barcelona was not an overnight decision. It was a culmination of events that started in the 2013-14 season. That season saw Barcelona knocked out of the Champions League by Atletico Madrid and finish second in La Liga behind arch-rivals Real Madrid.

Tensions with Luis Enrique

The following season, Luis Enrique took over as manager, and tensions between him and Xavi started to grow. Xavi was no longer an automatic starter under Enrique, who preferred a more direct style of play that did not suit Xavi’s strengths.

A New Challenge

In May 2015, Xavi announced that he would be leaving Barcelona at the end of the season to join Qatari club Al-Sadd. Many were surprised by this move, but Xavi explained that he wanted a new challenge and to experience a different culture.

Life After Barcelona

Xavi enjoyed a successful stint at Al-Sadd, winning multiple titles and being named as the league’s best player in his first season. He also continued to play for the Spanish national team until his retirement in 2018.

Return to Barcelona?

There were rumors that Xavi could return to Barcelona as a coach or even as a player towards the end of his career. However, those rumors never materialized, and Xavi continued to focus on his coaching career.

Conclusion

Xavi’s departure from Barcelona was a sad moment for many fans, but it was also an understandable one. Xavi had given his all for the club and wanted a new challenge. His legacy at Barcelona will always be remembered, and he will forever be regarded as one of the greatest midfielders to have ever played the game.