XAV TO STAY
Xavi ‘considers making astonishing U-turn’ after publicly announcing Barcelona exit
It comes after Barcelona have already agreed to sign a player for next season
XAVI is set for a sensational U-turn and continue as Barcelona coach, according to reports in Spain.
The legendary Barca midfielder announced he was quitting back in January after a string of poor results.
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But things have picked up for Barca in recent weeks and but for a controversial Ronald Araujo red card, the club could be in the Champions League semi-final.
According to Mundo Deportivo, the boss - whose side lost 3-2 to Real Madrid at the weekend - is now reconsidering his decision.
He will sit down to discuss his future with president Joan Laporta, vice president Rafa Yuste and sporting director Deco.
After announcing his departure, Xavi has successfully integrated a number of La Masia graduates into the first team alongside Lamine Yamal, 16, including Pau Cubarsi, 17, and Fermin Lopez, 20.
The opportunity to add some experience to his youthful side is understood to be an enticing prospect for Xavi.
Xavi already enjoys a good rapport with Deco, and his relationship with Laporta and Yuste has improved after they publicly pleaded with him to stay in recent weeks.
Senior players have asked Xavi to reconsider, and the support of Barca fans for the club legend is also strong.
Xavi would use his renewed political strength to demand a marquee player is signed, which has been denied to him in the past.
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He is a big admirer of Manchester City's Bernardo Silva and a move was mooted last summer.
The Catalan club did not have the funds to complete the transfer, but could instead move for Dani Olmo this year.
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Mundo Deportivo claim the club have already met with RB Leipzig ahead of a move.
Barca have already made their first signing ahead of next season after agreeing to sign Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez, 30, on a free at the end of his contract.
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