Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has sent a stark warning to incoming manager Hansi Flick with the Catalan giants beset with behind-the-scenes turmoil under Joan Laporta.
The former Spain midfielder was informed last week he was to be sacked, having previously performed a U-turn saying he wanted to stay on at the LaLiga side after announcing his intention to leave earlier this year.
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Ex-Germany and Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick is expected to replace him.
“To the new manager, I tell you: You will suffer. This is a very complicated place to be,” Xavi said after his final match in charge, a 2-1 win over Sevilla.
“This is a difficult job and you have to be patient.”
Xavi does not have another job lined up and is prepared to wait for the right offer.
“Nothing is closed. I’m a professional, let’s see what happens in the future,” he added.
“Of course I’m open (to a new job), but I think 100 per cent I need to rest a little bit.
“It’s so difficult to coach Barcelona. It’s been tough last week, but I have my conscience very clear. I’m proud and happy.
“When we got here we knew it was a difficult time for the club and I think we can be proud of the work we have done.”
🗣️ "He will suffer"
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) May 27, 2024
Barcelona coach Xavi had some interesting words for his expected successor Hansi Flick ⬇️ pic.twitter.com/xG78Lt6WxB
