Xavi Will Remain Barcelona Manager After Announcing Departure in January, per Report

The club legend appears set to stick around for a while yet.

Jul 29, 2023; Arlington, Texas, USA; FC Barcelona head coach Xavi. / Kevin Jairaj-USA TODAY Sports

Three months after announcing he woud leave Barcelona at the end of the season, Xavi has reportedly changed his mind.

The legendary Barcelona and Spain midfielder will remain as manager after a meeting with club president Joan Laporte, according to a Wednesday afternoon report from soccer writer Fabrizio Romano. Xavi initially announced his departure in January following a 5-3 loss to Villarreal that left the club reeling.

Barcelona is currently second in La Liga with a record of 21-4-7, 11 points behind first-place Real Madrid. The club was knocked out of the Champions League in the quarterfinals this month against Paris-Saint Germain; Xavi was sent off in the tie's second leg.

🚨 BREAKING: Xavi has decided to change his mind and STAY as Barcelona manager!

After tonight’s meeting and Laporta insisting for him to stay, Xavi accepts Barça conditions and will continue as head coach.

Formal steps to follow. pic.twitter.com/uVShukTnRO

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 24, 2024

Since taking over as manager, Xavi has led Barcelona to domestic league and supercup titles—both in 2023.

The manager was much more successful as a player, amassing eight Spanish league titles, three Spanish cup titles, four Champions League titles and a World Cup title over a two-decade run.