- Barca fans hit out at president
- Xavi slammed critical chants
- Coach’s future still uncertain
WHAT HAPPENED?
The Blaugrana fans voiced their anger towards the president as they ran out 3-0 winners against Rayo Vallecano in their penultimate La Liga game of the 2023-24 campaign on Sunday. A section of the home crowd whistled at the “Barca yes, Laporta no” chants, but head coach Xavi heard enough to speak out against them, too.
WHAT XAVI SAID
“To be totally honest, I didn’t like it,” Xavi said. “It’s not nice for me. What I want is union and that the family [club] is good, but it’s the fans who decide. I don’t like it when someone is singled out.”
He added: “We have to be united. Three weeks ago we spoke about being united and taking this project forward and that is still the case.”
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Xavi announced earlier this year that he would leave the Catalan giants at the end of the season, but eventually agreed to remain at the helm beyond the summer. Despite his U-turn, there have been calls for him to be sacked and Sport reports there is still a possibility that Laporta and Co. could still opt to replace him ahead of next season.
WHAT NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
Barca’s issues extend well beyond Xavi, however. The club has been plagued by financial troubles in recent years and they may have a difficult time finding funds to strengthen the squad further during the next transfer window.