Xavi’s agents meet with Barcelona officials to discuss contract renewal

 Barcelona’s game against Girona highlighted some of Xavi Hernandez’s flaws as the manager of FC Barcelona. The club legend’s reluctance to give youngsters a run-in sees him rely on veteran players, often even played out of position, to make an impact in the face of adversity.

Yet, one cannot forget the radical improvement in the Catalan club’s performance and quality since his arrival midway through last season. Xavi has brought Barcelona who were struggling in the middle of the league table to a position of firm dominance this season and is set to win his first La Liga title as a manager.

According to reports from Benayad Achraf, a meeting took place earlier today between Xavi’s agents and the representatives from Barcelona to renew his contract.

Mateu Alemany, Rafael Yuste and Jordi Cruyff were involved in the proceeding and all signs indicate that his continuity is ascertained.

It has previously been reported that Barcelona president Joan Laporta is pushing for Xavi to sign a renewal until 2026. And it seems like the club are already making moves to ensure his continuity.

The 43-year-old Spanish tactician’s current deal with the club runs until June 2024. The team have won 66% of their games under his stewardship, losing and drawing 18% and 16% respectively.

Xavi has made Barcelona a team competitive at the domestic level once again this season, but there is a feeling it will not be enough for the upcoming campaign.

Given the liberty the manager enjoys in terms of signing players, he must take the club deep into the UEFA Champions League next term.

Moreover, there is now pressure building on the tactician to give younger players like Pablo Torre and Estanis Pedrola a run in the remaining games of the season.

After all, La Masia has been the lifeline that gave Barcelona a new lease of life in recent seasons and overlooking the academy for big names in the market has usually not fared well for the Catalans.