Author: Barkha Roy
FC Barcelona officially announced the contract extension of their coach, 43-year-old Xavi Hernandez, on Friday. Xavi originally signed a three-year contract with the La Liga club following the departure of Dutchman Ronald Koeman at the end of 2021. However, the new agreement now extends his tenure with the club until 2025, with an option for a further year.
Xavi’s arrival marked a significant change in approach for the first team, as the Terrasa-born coach aimed to instill Barça’s renowned style of play, a philosophy deeply rooted in his own playing days. His challenge was to put together a squad that combined experience and young talent, a goal he has gradually achieved.
Over the last 18 months, Xavi has faced the challenge of adapting the team’s tactical system to suit the players available and overcoming various obstacles. Initially, a clear 4-3-3 formation was evident, but then he introduced innovations such as a 4-4-2 configuration with Gavi playing as a “false winger”.
Xavi, a former Spain international, managed Barcelona in 96 matches, winning 61, drawing 16 and losing 19. The previous season, he won his first coaching title by winning the Spanish Super Cup and leading the club to their 27th La Liga championship, ending a four-year drought. Xavi’s historic playing career at Barcelona lasted 17 years, during which he amassed 25 trophies in 767 appearances, including eight La Liga titles and four Champions League victories.
Speaking to the media at a press conference ahead of Saturday’s game against Celta de Vigo, Xavi reflected on his journey: “We arrived at a difficult time, in unfavorable circumstances. Last year, we won two important titles. We’re currently in a transitional phase.”
Before taking over at Barcelona, the 43-year-old coach managed Qatar’s Al-Sadd, replacing Ronald Koeman when Barcelona were struggling to finish ninth in La Liga. Under his leadership, the team showed significant improvements, securing the runners-up spot and subsequent qualification for the Champions League.
This season, Barcelona have also had a good start, winning five out of six games in all competitions.