Barca up and running since Xavi's shock announcement

'El Clasico' defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final, the Copa del Rey exit at the hands of Athletic and the 3-5 thrashing by Villarreal at the Camp Nou were too much of a battle for Xavi Hernandez. The Tarrasa native had already been dropping hints in previous days, but it was that thrashing when he had come from 2-0 down that triggered his announcement that he would be leaving Barca at the end of the season.

"Before you ask me the relevant questions, I would like to announce that on 30th June I will not continue as Barca coach. The situation deserves a change of direction. As a 'Cule', I can't allow it to go on like this. I had made up my mind a few days ago, but I think it's time to say it. The club needs a change of dynamic", were his words in the press room at Montjuic.

One of the strong reasons for announcing it at the end of January is that, in his opinion, putting an end to all the rumours around the bench would defuse the situation. "The players will be relieved, they will be calmer. We are playing with a lot of tension and the best thing is to leave. I'll give it my all for the next four months. It's a decision to think first of the club rather than myself," argued Xavi.

It's true that the spotlight is still on the Catalan coach, but in a different way. Barca have opened the casting to look for a coach and in the meantime, Xavi Hernandez feels less the pressure of the club's atmosphere and his team is getting results. In fact, they have not lost since he announced the end of his spell as Barca coach.

Since 27th January, FC Barcelona have played six games, winning four and drawing two. However, they have had very mixed results. They began by beating Osasuna (1-0) with a goal from Vitor Roque and followed that up with