Barcelona president Joan Laporta has hit back at former head coach Xavi, claiming the same squad that is now thriving under Hansi Flick was 'losing' under the Spaniard. Laporta's comments come after Xavi launched a stunning tirade against his former boss earlier this week, accusing him of lying about his position at the club.
Speaking in a live debate on Sport, Laporta said: 'It hurt. When I see these statements, I think of Flick. It's tough being president because you have to make difficult decisions. With Xavi, I saw that we would continue losing, so it's reassuring to see how things have turned out.' He added: 'The same players who were losing with Xavi are now winning with Flick.'
Laporta also criticised Xavi's attitude, saying he 'became complacent and couldn't balance his professional and family life' and that he had claimed the squad was not competitive. Xavi was sacked in May 2024, a year after winning the La Liga title in 2023.
Xavi had earlier claimed that Laporta went back on his word about keeping him at the club and that he was dismissed by Alejandro Echevarría, a figure he described as being above the president. Laporta's response suggests the club's decision to part ways with Xavi was justified given the improved performances under Flick.
