Barcelona fans were left trembling on Saturday, not just from the humiliating 3-5 thrashing by Villarreal, but by the bombshell dropped in the post-match conference. Xavi, the prodigal son who promised to restore Camp Nou’s lost dominance, announced his imminent departure. The Blaugrana boss has decided to step down at the end of the season. The question on everyone’s mind–What led to Xavi’s sudden decision to bid farewell to the club he holds so close? Well, someone has the answer, and it surrounds a certain anchor at the club, who’s not there anymore.

While fans dissect the shocking decision, a former Liverpool icon pointed out a tactical anomaly that increased Xavi’s struggles at Barcelona. Let’s uncover the ‘real reason’ that the former Liverpool star has claimed to be the tipping point.

Unmasking the ‘small’ dilemma that led to Xavi’s unexpected downfall

Luis Garcia, former Barcelona and Liverpool star, sheds light on a hidden aspect that might have triggered Xavi’s departure. In a soccer debate on ESPN FC, Garcia identified the absence of midfield maestro Sergio Busquets as a major gaping hole in Barcelona’s gameplay. He claimed that Xavi was unable to replace Busquets’ impact on the team, despite having skilled youngsters. “We cannot forget that last year a big, important player was managing and handling this team,” he emphasized, his voice carrying the weight of Barcelona’s recent woes. He then went on to emphasize how much of a difference one key player can make by not being there on a given day.

Trending

“Their Manager Has Been Disrespectful”- Wrexham Star Seeks Revenge on Stockport Boss

April 27, 2024 05:07 PM EDT

Banned in Last Game, Is Cristiano Ronaldo Playing Tonight For Al Nassr Vs Al Khaleej

April 27, 2024 02:00 PM EDT

Is Arsenal Target Amadou Onana Related to Manchester United’s Andre Onana? Here’s Everything You Need to Know

January 09, 2024 11:58 AM EST

Fact Check: Is Lionel Messi’s Mother Lebanese? Uncovering the Truth Behind Celia’s Nationality

March 30, 2024 02:46 PM EDT

New England Revolution vs Inter Miami- Expected Lineups, Injuries, Team News, Predictions, Head-to-Head Stats, Live Streaming & How to Watch Lionel Messi on TV

April 27, 2024 09:08 AM EDT

Get instantly notified of the hottest Soccer stories via Google! Click on Follow Us and Tap the Blue Star.

Follow Us

“Busquets, for such a long time, has been the player who makes the difference in the middle. And not having that kind of player, I think that Xavi’s been struggling with Barcelona to find it with Romeo, Frenkie De Jong, and Gavi. So, in the end, just that small piece could change the whole situation of Barcelona.” The midfield, Garcia asserts, is weak and leaky, too far away from the orchestrating force that fueled Barcelona’s past triumphs. There has been too much speculation over Xavi’s future at Camp Nou recently.

Barcelona suffered defeats against Real Madrid in the Super Cup, and against Atheltic Club in the Copa del Ray. And now with the latest loss against Villareal, the Blaugrana have slipped nine goals in their last two games, leaving them 10 points adrift of leaders Real Madrid.

Fabio Capello: Robert Lewandowski is “Failing” Xavi at FC Barcelona

As Xavi grapples with the tactical dilemma highlighted by Garcia, question marks surround the team’s defensive vulnerabilities and overall strategy. The club will need to find a replacement for Xavi, which itself will be a tough task, considering their limited financial power. It will be interesting to see how Joan Laporta and his management bring the club out of this slump.

The coming days will undoubtedly see this narrative being dissected and debated. As the Xavi era draws the curtains, the need for change at the club becomes increasingly important. Barcelona’s next clash against Osasuna will be pivotal for Xavi and Co. to bounce back, as he still believes in competing for the title. All eyes will be on Xavi when Barcelona grace the pitch in the coming days.

WATCH THIS STORY: Ten Times Cristiano Ronaldo Scored Four Goals in a Game