My reason for staying as Barcelona coach – Xavi

Xavi Hernandez announced on Thursday that he has chosen to continue as Barcelona’s coach for a “cocktail of reasons,” which includes the backing of important club players and fans.

Xavi announced in January that, despite having one more year on his contract, he would leave his position in the summer as Barcelona was having a terrible season.

But this week, Xavi made a stunning U-turn and chose to stay, even though the team was certain to finish the season without a trophy after meeting with the board and president Joan Laporta.

Barcelona now trails their opponents by 11 points in La Liga after losing to Real Madrid in the Clasico and being eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain from the Champions League last week.

“It was a not a simple decision, in January I said (I would leave) because I thought it was best for the club,” Xavi told a news conference.

“I am full of hope, these three months have made me change, the players believe in it, and wise people are willing to rectify, here I am.

“It’s not about ego, or money, I have energy, I see the fans are happy and proud — it’s a cocktail of reasons, above all the confidence of the president and (sporting director) Deco.”

Xavi said although the team he took to La Liga glory last season have failed to achieve their objectives, they have now proved they can equal Europe’s best sides.

“Above all I said yesterday to Deco, the president… that the team has improved a lot,” explained Xavi.

“Two years ago we went to Bayern (Munich) and I had the feeling that we weren’t up to it. Now I think we’re in shape to compete with the biggest teams in Europe.

“I have the feeling that this year (the Champions League) escaped us by just a couple of small things, we will try again, I’m excited to — now it’s in our hands.”

Xavi said reports he was only staying because of money were designed to “hurt” him.

In January he claimed coaching Barcelona was “unpleasant” and “cruel”, and Xavi said he did not expect that to change.

“Coaching here is very hard, but I see myself with the energy to keep leading the project,” he added.

Barcelona president Joan Laporta said he was glad Xavi was staying and that it was good for the stability of the club.

“It’s great news that Xavi is staying,” said Laporta.

“The team we have, that is (still) consolidating, with very young players, needs that stability.

“Xavi is a reference for young players and we can see that — today I’m especially pleased, and the board have unanimously supported this decision.”