Departing Xavi warns of demands that could ruin another brilliant La Masia talent

Now that Xavi knows he’s leaving Barcelona in the summer, he’s able to speak a little more freely – and he hasn’t held back in his Cassandra-like warnings about where the club of his heart is headed.

When he’s not busy sending mean messages to journalists, the Barca coach is known for his attempts to promote as many young players from La Masia as possible to follow in his footsteps. Pau Cubarsi is this season’s shining example, making his debut in January and racking up 12 appearances in all competitions since then.

But despite having been the man to throw the 17 year old into the mix, Xavi’s warnings to his successors are to not burn the youngster. He pointed to the chilling example of Pedri, La Masia’s last revelation who has suffered endless injury problems since playing a record breaking 73 games in his breakthrough season at a similar age to Cubarsi.

Speaking in the light Luis de la Fuente calling the teenager up to the senior Spain squad, Xavi said he “hopes that all that doesn’t repeat itself,” in quotes picked up by Marca.

“There’s no need to put himself in that negative scenario. We’re all delighted for him, and for the bravery of De la Fuente [for calling him up]. I’m so happy for Pau. I can’t tell you anything about what is to come because I don’t decide if he goes to the Olympic games or to the Euros.”

Let’s hope these warnings are heeded. Spain can ill afford to damage another extreme talent as they have with Pedri.