November 08, (THEWILL) – Former Barcelona manager Pep Guardiola has encouraged Xavi Hernandez to restore La Blaugrana to its previous status after Xavi’s celebrated return to Camp Nou.
On Monday, Xavi was introduced to the supporters after completing a deal to succeed Ronald Koeman as Barcelona manager, six years after leaving the club as a player.
A significant reason for Xavi’s arrival was to hire someone with a clear understanding of Barcelona’s current vision, which Guardiola helped create during his time at the club, and Guardiola acknowledged he expects positive things from his former midfield controller.
“If Laporta and the board have chosen Xavi, it is because there are millions of pros and few cons,” he said (via Marca). “He knows the club, he will bring positive energy because of how he sees football and because of his dedication, he will surely take the club forwards.
“I was nobody’s heir and Xavi does not have to be my heir or anyone else’s. It has to be him, nothing more than him. The decisions will be made by him and no-one but him.”
The comments of the current Manchester City manager follow Xavi’s remarks at his presentation as Barcelona manager, in which the Catalan club’s new boss was asked about similarities to Guardiola.
“Being compared to Guardiola is already a success because of what he has given to football, to Barça, and because he is a reference for me,” Xavi said earlier in the day.
“Guardiola is the best coach in the world, but any comparisons now are bad for me. I understand the expectations and I know that I am at the best club in the world and we have to demand everything of ourselves.
“It is an honour to be compared to Guardiola and I will work to try and justify that.”
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Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
