Xavi, who holds a record for the number of appearances at Barca for all time. He has long been associated with the main work at the Camp Nou, where he spent 17 trophy-laden years as a player.
Bartomeu supports Setien, but believes that Xavi will move to Barca “one day”
The president of Barcelona, Josep Maria Bartomeu, supported the head coach Quique Setien. But believes that the legend of the club Xavi will inherit the managerial reins “ono day”. Xavi, who holds a record for the number of appearances at Barca for all time. He has long been associated with the main work at the Camp Nou, where he spent 17 trophy-laden years as a player. He was considered one of the front-runners to take the post when Ernesto Valverde was dismissed in January, only to publicly assume that he was not ready, which is why Barca turned to Setien. Xavi has since stated that he wants to become a Barcelona manager and was encouraged to succeed in Setien. Still, the former midfielder signed a contract with the Qatari club Al Sadd as manager on Sunday.
Setien knows Barca’s DNA
And although the jury remains out on Setien, given that his side is four points behind Real Madrid in LaLiga, Bartomeu gave him his support. The team needed a push. Setien knows our DNA, model, and brought new ethers and new ideas. “The coaches obey the results, but I’m pleased with the evolution of the team.” On Xavi’s coaching powers, Bartomeu added: “Xavi is a great coach who I’m sure will come to Barça one day.” Lousy form of Barça and the fight backstage again led to suggestions that Leo Messi could make the unthinkable and leave the club when his contract expires in 2021.
Bartomeu remained unshakable in his belief that the 33-year-old superstar would step down with the Blaugrana and said that the club would do everything possible to extend his deal. “He has a contract until 2021 – we usually don’t explain conversations with players. But we must extend it”. He said: “Messi is the best player in the world”. Messi and his team will return to LaLiga on Tuesday evening, with Espanyol set to arrive at Camp Nou for a local derby. A win would allow Barca to continue to exert pressure on arch-rivals and current leaders Real Madrid. They are expected to host Deportivo Alaves at Santiago Bernabeu on Friday.