Xavi announces his departure from Barcelona at the end of the season

It's officially confirmed that Xavi will vacate his role as manager of Barcelona at the close of this football season.

This past laureate, who steered Barcelona to win La Liga in the previous season, has been under substantial strain due to poor performances by the team in recent matches, resulting in them being eliminated from the Supercopa de Espana and Copa del Rey. Moreover, a 5-3 loss to Villarreal on Saturday put Barca ten points adrift of the league leaders, Real Madrid.

Xavi arrived late to his post-game press briefing after a meeting with president Joan Laporta. When he did arrive, he verified that he had decided to step down at the end of the season.

'I want to clarify that as of June 30, I will no longer be the coach of Barca,' he expressed. 'This conclusion, conceived jointly with the president and Rafa Yuste, was necessary due to the current circumstances. This cannot continue.

'I believe the club requires a shift in momentum. For the well-being of the players, whom I think will benefit, we can't keep playing under such strains. Looking out for the interest of the board of directors, my departure is the best solution.

'I will give it my all. I'm positive that everything will contribute to the change in dynamic. This is the message I intend to convey.'

When asked whether Saturday's loss influenced his decision to leave, Xavi clarified, 'I had made up my mind a while ago. I was merely awaiting the right moment. If not today, then maybe next week.'

Xavi conceded that his spell as the manager of Barcelona has been psychologically taxing, maintaining that the pressure involved in the role is unbearable over the long term.

'Being a coach for Barcelona weighs heavily on you—it's harsh, unpleasant, and you feel belittled,' he confided. 'It drastically takes a toll on your mental well-being, your general demeanor to the point of desiring to opt-out. My closest friends are aware of this.

'This scenario is not unique to me but extends to all the coaches who have served in this club. It is unimaginable to have a Barcelona equivalent of Sir Alex Ferguson.'