The president of FC Barcelona, Joan Laporta, has expressed his discontent with former player Xavi Hernandez following the latter’s criticisms during the club’s presidential elections. Reports indicate that Laporta’s strained relationship with Xavi has led to significant tensions within the club.
According to journalist Javi Miguel, the current management at Barcelona has denied Xavi the opportunity to participate in an upcoming legends match. Although Xavi reached out to the club seeking permission to play, he was reportedly informed that he is not a particularly welcome guest at Camp Nou.
This situation appears to be rooted in past political disagreements, as Xavi supported Laporta’s rival during the elections, which may have influenced the current board’s stance towards him. Xavi, a product of Barcelona’s renowned academy, made his first-team debut in 1998 and left the club in 2015 to join Qatari side Al-Sadd.
He returned to Barcelona as head coach in 2021, a position he held until 2024. Fans are now calling for clarity from Laporta regarding the treatment of the club legend.