Xavi Hernández believes that the pressure on coaches in Spain—especially at clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid—is exceptionally intense.
After being dismissed from Barcelona, Xavi has been out of coaching for a year. However, he’s now eager to return to the dugout. The World Cup-winning former midfielder has expressed interest in managing a club in the English Premier League in the future.
In 2021, Xavi took charge of Barcelona during a difficult period following Ronald Koeman’s departure. He led the Catalan club to a La Liga title in the 2022–23 season. However, the 2023–24 campaign was far less successful.
At the end of that season, Xavi announced his intention to step down and firmly stated that he would not reverse the decision. Barcelona managed to convince him to stay for the final year of his contract, but just a month later, the club abruptly sacked him.
In a recent interview with The Athletic, the 45-year-old opened up about the intense coaching environment in Spain and his desire to explore opportunities in England.
“In Spain, especially at Barcelona and Real Madrid, the pressure on coaches is extremely high,” said Xavi.
“I’m in no hurry, but I want a solid project. For example: ‘You’ve got four years to work and build a plan.’ I want to work in the Premier League because I love the passion for football there. In Spain, everything revolves around results.”
He pointed to the case of Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti to illustrate how harsh the environment can be.
“Look at what’s happened with Ancelotti—people are criticizing him. It’s unfair. He’s won 30 trophies in 10 years, and still, he’s being criticized as if he’s won nothing. (Former Barcelona coach) Ernesto Valverde put it well: ‘If Ancelotti gets criticized, what can the rest of us expect?’ There’s a lot of pressure in Spain, especially at Barça and Madrid.”
Xavi also said he wouldn’t rule out coaching a national team in the future.
“Or maybe a national team—that would be exciting. When I dreamed of becoming a coach, I imagined coaching in the World Cup or European Championship. Spain? Why not in the future? Or maybe another team. I’m not worried.”
