As FC Barcelona prepares for their last home game of the season against Rayo Vallecano, the future of their coach Xavi is in question amidst recent rumors of him leaving the club. With only second place in the league at stake, Barcelona will have to do without key players Andreas Christensen and Joao Cancelo, while Rayo Vallecano will welcome back several players from injuries. This match will be crucial for both teams as they look to end the season on a high note.
Xavi's Future in Doubt as FC Barcelona Prepares for Final Home Match
As the 2022-23 LaLiga season draws to a close, the future of FC Barcelona coach Xavi Hernandez hangs in the balance. The club's recent disappointing performances have sparked rumors that Xavi could be set to leave, despite having only recently extended his contract until 2024.
Background
Xavi returned to Barcelona as coach in November 2021, following the sacking of Ronald Koeman. The former midfield legend was tasked with rebuilding a team that had fallen into decline in recent years, both on and off the pitch.
Under Xavi's guidance, Barcelona showed significant improvement in the second half of last season, finishing second in LaLiga and reaching the Europa League quarter-finals. However, the 2022-23 campaign has been a more challenging one.
Recent Form
Barcelona has struggled for consistency this season, losing crucial matches against Real Madrid and Inter Milan. They currently sit in second place in LaLiga, 15 points behind leaders Real Madrid, with only three games remaining.
The team's recent form has led to questions about Xavi's suitability as coach. Some fans and pundits believe that his tactical approach is outdated and that he has failed to get the best out of his squad.
Key Absentees
For the final home match of the season against Rayo Vallecano, Barcelona will be without key defenders Andreas Christensen and Joao Cancelo. Both players are suspended after being sent off in the previous match against Real Madrid.
Rayo Vallecano, on the other hand, will welcome back several players from injuries, including goalkeeper Luca Zidane and defender Mario Suarez.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Is Xavi leaving FC Barcelona?
The future of Xavi is uncertain, with rumors suggesting that he could leave the club if he does not achieve success at the end of the season.
2. Why are people questioning Xavi's future?
Barcelona's recent poor form and disappointing results have led to speculation about Xavi's suitability as coach.
3. Who could replace Xavi as Barcelona coach?
Potential replacements for Xavi include Roberto Martinez, Luis Enrique, and Erik ten Hag.
4. Why are Christensen and Cancelo suspended for the match against Rayo Vallecano?
Christensen and Cancelo were both sent off for yellow card offenses in the previous match against Real Madrid.
5. When is the final home match of the season for FC Barcelona?
The final home match of the season for FC Barcelona against Rayo Vallecano will be played on May 13, 2023, at Camp Nou.
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