Former manager Xavi Hernandez’s relationship with Barcelona appears to have taken another uncomfortable turn following a series of strained incidents.
According to journalist Javier Miguel on AS, the Catalan club has blocked their midfield icon from playing for Barca Legends.
Xavi had reportedly asked to take part in the final two matches with the Legends team, but that request has been denied.
The decision is said to be linked to Xavi’s stance during the recent Barcelona elections, when he criticised Laporta’s board and called out Alejandro Echevarria.
Xavi has been told that he is not welcome for now, but it is said that Barcelona see this as a temporary situation and an issue that can be resolved over time.
Does not show Barcelona in a good light
From a Barcelona perspective, this decision does not exactly make them smell like roses.
Xavi is not just any other former player. He is arguably the greatest midfielder to have ever worn Blaugrana, alongside Andres Iniesta.
He is a symbol of Barca’s most glorious period and also returned as a coach during one of the club’s toughest periods, helping them stay relevant.
Even if there are internal disagreements, blocking him from a Legends match feels unwarranted and leaves a bad taste.
Xavi deserves better treatment
It is understandable that Xavi’s comments around the club’s leadership created tension. He spoke strongly and placed responsibility on people inside the institution.
He also gave his support to the man who was running against Laporta in the presidential elections. Barcelona, though, should learn to differentiate criticism from legacy.
In a democratically run club, as Barcelona claim they are, everyone should be given the right to voice their opinion without it being held against them in the future.
Xavi gave Barcelona some of their finest football memories. Whatever the internal politics, he should never be made to feel like a stranger at the club he helped define.
