28th January, 2024
By Taiwo Okanlawon
Barcelona’s manager Xavi Hernandez has decided to step down at the end of the season.
This decision came after Barcelona’s 5-3 league loss at home to Villarreal.
Barca lost 3-5 on the day and at 2-3 saw a penalty for handball awarded then overturned by VAR.
In reaction, Xavi turned to the TV camera and shouted, “A disgrace! A disgrace!”
Ref José Luis Munuera Montero blew for the handball after the ball struck Santi Comesaña. But the VAR later ruled it not deliberate and the ball had struck his elbow.
He said it was the best option for the team following recent occurrences in the team.
“I have decided I will not continue beyond June 30 (the end date of his contract),” Xavi said after Saturday’s match.
“It is a common-sense decision for the good of the club. “I took this decision days ago. I already knew it. But it’s time to make it public. “I think the players could not free themselves up. I don’t want to be a problem for the club, but the opposite.”
The 44-year-old led Barcelona to the Spanish Super Cup title and the Spanish league title last season, the club’s first trophies since the exit of Lionel Messi.