Barcelona Boss Xavi Losing Faith Of Directors And Players After Antwerp Loss 

Club legend, Xavi is reportedly losing the faith of players as well as the backing of club directors after Barcelona’s defeat to Antwerp continued their dire run.

Cadena Ser claims that the Barcelona manager is under increased criticism following their underwhelming Champions League performance on Wednesday against Royal Antwerp. Despite winning their group, the Blaugrana lost 3-2 in Belgium due to goals from Vincent Janssen, Arthur Vermeeren, and George Ilenikhena in stoppage time.

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The atmosphere within the club and the dressing room is thought to be tense, according to the report, with constant leaks adding to the pressure. Despite public support from Ferran Torres, it has been revealed that four key players, including Robert Lewandowski, Ilkay Gundogan, Frenkie de Jong and Marc-Andre ter Stegen are unhappy with Xavi’s management, citing dissatisfaction with his coaching style and a perceived lack of tactical solutions.

There are also reports that board members are upset about the team’s physical state. The team’s lacklustre performance against Antwerp was evident, and rumours of a tumultuous relationship between Sporting Director Deco and Xavi about roster choices have only fueled more doubt. The sporting committee, which consists of Laporta, Deco, Joan Soler, Enric Masip, Rafael Yuste, and Bojan Krkic, reportedly has little faith left in Xavi and describes his position as “very weak.”

Amid the crisis, Lamine Yamal was the only bright spark as he became the youngest player to register an assist in the Champions League after setting up Torres.

For Xavi’s future, the game against Valencia on Sunday is therefore very important. A win might provide him with some much-needed breathing room, but if the players don’t respond well, it will only make him feel more uncertain.