What Xavi said about Manchester City star Bernardo Silva as Spaniard prepares to leave Barcelona

Redaction Simon Brett with Tom Procter
Published on 2024-01-29 10:00:00

Xavi made headlines over the weekend with his announcement that he will be leaving Barcelona at the end of the season. The departure of the legendary former midfielder prompts questions about what this means for Manchester City star Bernardo Silva.

Xavi has been the head coach of the Spanish giants since November 2021, following his appointment to replace Ronald Koeman. His contract with the club was set to expire in the summer of 2024, but it has now been confirmed that he will not be extending it.

Following Barcelona’s 5-3 defeat to Villarreal, Xavi expressed his belief that the club needs a change of dynamic for the good of the players, adding that he would be leaving for the benefit of the board of directors as well. He stressed that his departure would help pave the way for a dynamic change.

Xavi said (BBC Sport): “I think the club needs a change of dynamic. For the good of the players, I believe that they will free themselves. We play with a lot of tension.

“For the good of the board of directors, it is best that I leave. I will give my best. I think all of that will help the dynamic change. This is the message I would like to give. I think I am doing the right thing.”

It will now be quite interesting to see if Barcelona still make a play for Bernardo Silva this summer, given what Xavi had said about the player previously.

Xavi actually spoke about Bernardo last year, and publicly backed a potential move for the player. He said: “Bernardo was tempted by joining us last summer. It’s normal, players are always open to join Barca. Bernardo would be an excellent signing, obviously; that would be fantastic but he’s Man City player. It’s very difficult.”

The relationship between Xavi’s exit and Bernardo Silva’s future with the club is significant. The Portuguese international has long been linked with Barcelona, with rumors suggesting that he might not be happy living in Manchester and is looking for a warmer climate.

The fact that Xavi is leaving Barcelona may impact City’s efforts to retain Bernardo. Pep Guardiola, City’s head coach, has expressed his admiration for the Portuguese star, stating that he is an incredible player and one of the best players he has ever seen.

Guardiola would never want to see Bernardo leave the club, and Xavi’s departure could potentially influence his decision to stay for another season.

The departure of Xavi and its potential impact on the player’s transfer is an ongoing story to follow. As the pieces of this football puzzle come together, it will be interesting to see how Bernardo Silva’s future unfolds in the context of Xavi’s departure from Barcelona.

Read Original article on Manchester City News