Barcelona’s Arch-Rival Coach Backs Xavi To Turn Fortunes Around

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti has claimed that Xavi can turn Barcelona’s fortunes around.

Xavi has been under increasing pressure as a result of Barcelona’s recent struggles. The Blaugrana almost lost to Rayo Vallecano, and they had to rely on a late own goal to salvage a meagre draw. Xavi responded by telling the media that his players needed to step up their game.

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Xavi’s team is already falling out of contention this season, after winning the league title the previous one. They are four points off the top spot in fourth position, and they have a big matchup with Girona in second place coming up next month. Although there have been sporadic rumours of “crisis talks” at the Barca training facility in recent weeks, the manager has addressed their recent poor performance.

The Blaugrana’s fixture today will be crucial in their European future. A win against Porto would send the Blaugrana into the Champions League knockout stages for the first time in three years — and also likely see them top the group. Lose, though, and they will face a must-win contest at Antwerp on the final matchday.