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Sam Marsden, Barcelona correspondent
Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández said he has unfinished business after backtracking on his decision to step down at the end of the season.
Xavi announced in January that he would leave the job in the summer, despite having a contract until 2025, but sources told ESPN on Wednesday he had agreed to stay on after losses to Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid in the past week effectively ended Barça’s hopes of silverware this season.
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Speaking in a news conference on Thursday, he said the support of the club and a desire to finish the project he inherited in 2021 when he took over were among the reasons for his U-turn.
“I love Barça and I always try to do what is in the club’s best interests,” Xavi said.
“In these three months [since announcing my departure], I have noticed the support from the president [Joan Laporta], the board of directors and [sporting director] Deco.
“The support of the players and the fans — who have encouraged me on the street and filled the stadium — has also been important in deciding to reverse my decision.
“We probably won’t win any trophies this season, but this is a winning project. We have to continue with it and we have to keep working hard. I feel we have the capacity, the energy and the motivation to keep going.
“In January, I thought a change was needed, but I think this is the best decision now. It think it brings stability and I am happy, above all for the backing I have received from the club.
“Many people have made me see that this project is not finished. I am staying to keep winning. We will correct the small details that have cost us this year and we believe next season we will be closer to our objectives.”
