Inside Spain: The politics of Xavi Hernandez, Real Madrid's eye on Manchester City star and departing legend
Inside Spain is a weekly installment brought to you by Football España, offering insight into all the big stories from the rich and intense parts of La Liga and beyond.
Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez will stay at the club, as he explained on Thursday, 89 days after announcing his departure, and after 12 separate press conferences where he said his decision would not be changed.
In a press conference with President Joan Laporta, the two explained that Xavi feels the confidence of the players, fans and the board, while he finds new energy to continue. Both said it was the best decision for the team, and Laporta said he had the unanimous support of everyone on the team.
There was no shortage of contempt poured into their version of events in Catalonia, as the board was reportedly angry with Laporta, and Sporting Director Deco was thought to have wanted out. Xavi denies that he was going to take any money on his way out, but some reports say that the threat of a fee that Barcelona will not be able to pay is what is keeping him in the job.
??USA here they come. pic.twitter.com/UwmMqVpWJr
— Football España (@footballespana_) April 25, 2024
Meanwhile, Real Madrid are enjoying the drama from the sidelines, having set the wheels of disaster in motion with a 3-2 win in El Clasico. All but defending the La Liga title, during the suspension of Jude Bellingham's natural winner, their full focus is now on the Champions League with Bayern Munich, 11 points clear at the top of the table.
Perhaps the best news to come out of Spain is about Manchester City. Amid rumors that City are set to lose Pep Guardiola in 2025, one Spanish sporting director is keen on Txiki Begiristain's job, as he considers his future. Meanwhile, the President of Real Madrid, Florentino Perez, is also looking at one of City's stars next summer.
©? The captain's speech.
Here is the way @IkerMuniain10 he told his teammates that he will leave Athletic at the end of the season.
“I hope I've helped you all understand more about the Athletic spirit and what it means to play for this badge every weekend.” pic.twitter.com/qkuB9zUJLn
– Athletic Club (@Athletic_en) April 24, 2024
Athletic Club legend Iker Muniain has announced he will leave the club after almost 20 years, having made his debut aged 16, and lifted the Copa del Rey this season – bowing out in style. The Basques have been busy, however, as they want to sign Girona star Ivan Martin, and paid the 16-year-old talent from Villarreal and his agent €10m to sign them. Not a bad number for someone under 19.
Rafael Benitez's return to Spain continues to sour – this week players agreed that the move from the former Liverpool and Everton coach to former B team coach Claudio Giraldez was like moving from Jose Mourinho to Guardiola.
