"In January I thought it would be best to leave, but now I see it differently"

In the most eagerly awaited press conference of the day, Laporta and Xavi Hernandez explained the coach's decision to stay on as Barca coach next season. Xavi, after losing to Villarreal on 27 January, made a surprise announcement that he would be leaving the club at the end of the current campaign, a decision that has now taken a radical U-turn.

"I am satisfied that Xavi will continue as Barcelona coach," were the first words of Joan Laporta. "We know that he made statements in which he considered leaving at the end of the season. But we have been talking and he has expressed the enthusiasm, ambition and confidence he has in the project," he added.

"Adding that stability is a maxim for success given my experience as president, I have always opted for continuity. There is another reason, Xavi is an undisputed 'Cule'. I am especially happy. Xavi is a reference for young players and we can see that. The board of directors unanimously supported this decision," confirmed Laporta.

Once Laporta had spoken, it was Xavi's turn to explain his decision to continue. "When we met with the president, I put my position at his disposal, but I find myself with great confidence from the president, the sports area and the entire board. We are working well, it is a winning project. The fans have also made me see that I have to continue. I see myself with strength."

"I decided to leave a few months ago for the good of the club. When I take it, I think it will be good for the group and now the circumstances have changed. But I know the club. The role of the environment was not the main reason. If not, I wouldn't have taken the position," Xavi claimed about the change of direction.