Former FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández gave an extensive interview to the Spanish newspaper La Vanguardia, where he discussed several issues related to his time at the club, including the controversial failure of Lionel Messi to return to Barcelona.

Xavi explained that he still maintains a good relationship with Messi and that they occasionally speak. He admitted they had conversations about the club’s elections but preferred not to reveal details, hinting that people already understand Messi’s position.

Regarding Messi’s potential return, Xavi revealed that the Argentine star was extremely close to rejoining Barcelona while he was still the team’s coach. According to him, the agreement was almost finalized in January 2023. He also confirmed that he contacted Messi after he won the World Cup and that the player was enthusiastic about returning.

Xavi added that discussions between them continued until March and that he was waiting for the green light to inform club president Joan Laporta. He also stated that La Liga had already given preliminary approval for the move.

However, the deal eventually collapsed after Laporta reportedly backed out, telling Xavi that Messi’s return could create internal conflict within the club’s leadership.

Xavi also mentioned that he later tried to contact Messi again but received no response, so he spoke with Messi’s father, who advised him to speak directly with the club president. According to Xavi, everything was almost ready and the move could have been the “last dance,” similar to that of Michael Jordan.

The Spanish coach stressed that he will never return to Barcelona, saying his chapter with the club as both player and coach has come to an end. He insisted that Messi did not return simply because Laporta did not want it, not because of financial demands or league restrictions.

Xavi also praised current Barcelona coach Hansi Flick, stating that he likes the team’s playing style and describing it as dominant and attacking.

He highlighted that young talents such as Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Alejandro Balde, Pau Cubarsí, and Fermín López form the backbone of the project that began during his tenure.

Xavi also revealed that Flick visited his home to apologize after his dismissal, explaining that the German coach had previously denied rumors about replacing him because the club had asked him not to speak publicly.

The former coach admitted that he made mistakes during his time in charge and carried out significant self-criticism alongside his staff.

He also revealed that he requested the signing of Martín Zubimendi but was told the move was impossible due to financial constraints. Xavi added that the departures of Jordi Cruyff and Mateu Alemany were warning signs about internal issues within the club.

Finally, Xavi concluded by saying he is not speaking out of resentment but simply wants people to know the truth, insisting that Barcelona needs deep structural changes because the club is not functioning properly.