FC Barcelona: Excessive complacency continues

Following Xavi Hernandez’s announcement of leaving FC Barcelona coaching role, the team faced two potential outcomes: either his departure relieved the players, reducing pressure and enabling them to perform at their best, or it had a different impact. Or the second outcome, which appeared in Tonight’s match against Osasuna, the situation will remain the same. Playing without passion, without a real shape, and without form. Xavi’s announcement of his departure at season’s end seems like a shift of responsibility away from himself. It appears to place the burden on the players and board instead.

Indeed, announcing Xavi’s departure may buy some time for the administration to search for a “heavyweight” replacement this time and not a coach without a significant coaching background in Europe. But from the first look at the team, nothing has changed. Barcelona displayed a timid performance against Osasuna until Brazilian Vitor Roque netted his first goal for the team. This came after a brilliant by-pass from Lamine Yamal and an exceptional assist from Joao Cancelo. However, we can consider that the team did not appear as desired, facing a mid-table La Liga team. This encounter took place on the field of Montjuïc, adding another layer to the team’s performance evaluation.

This raises many questions: Should Xavi’s departure have occurred sooner rather than later? Because, even though Xavi have officially announced his departure at the end of the season, FCB must salvage the rest of the season. With such performance, it will continue to be difficult to compete for guaranteed European championship promotion. Don’t let the standings fool you, but you can fall at any moment this way. Also, the Champions League requires not wining the trophy, but at least advancing one step further to save face for the remainder of the season.

The new coach

There is no doubt that FC Barcelona must turn to a great coach this time to lead the team. It is enough to undertake risky experiments with novice coaches without a significant coaching history in Europe. What if Barcelona contacted Klopp and he agreed to coach the club or negotiate, but only after a season of rest? Would FCB consent to another transitional season with a temporary coach until Klopp starts his project?

Perhaps there will be more coaches available to negotiate next season. For the 25/26 season, we may see coaches like Arteta and Tuchel entering the picture, along with others. Additionally, Flick is considered the first candidate to lead the team next season, followed by Nagelsmann. If you received a call from a coach like Klopp and he told you that he is ready to take over your club team, but after a season of rest to prepare himself mentally, would you accept to wait for another season?

Hansi Flick, for taking over

Away from Klopp, according to several reports, Deco personally communicated with German coach Hansi Flick, and informed him of Barcelona’s interest in his services for the next season. It’s all just speculation for now, but the opportunity to sign a great coach should not be missed. Also, this season must not be forgotten, and what remains of it must be saved, before it’s too late.

Ahmed Waleed

Sports Journalists – La Liga specialist, Specifically about FC Barcelona