Xavi Hernandez's turbulent tenure at Barcelona has concluded, with the La Liga giants announcing his departure. This surprising development comes after Xavi recently reversed his decision to resign, promising to stay with Barcelona for the foreseeable future.

Barcelona revealed on Friday that Xavi has stepped down as head coach after an eventful season. Earlier, Xavi had indicated his intention to leave at the season's end, following a shocking 5-3 defeat to Villarreal, citing a "lack of respect" and calling the role “cruel and unpleasant.”

Despite his resignation announcement in January, Barcelona experienced a strong run, advancing to the quarter-finals of the UEFA Champions League before being eliminated by Paris Saint-Germain. However, in a statement, the club confirmed that President Joan Laporta had informed Xavi of his departure for the 2024-25 season. This meeting at Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper included sporting vice-president Rafa Yuste, director of sport Deco, Xavi, Oscar Hernández, and Sergio Alegre.

The statement expressed gratitude to Xavi for his contributions as coach and player, wishing him success in his future endeavors. Xavi will coach his final match for Barcelona on Sunday against Sevilla. The club will soon announce the new first team structure.

There had been speculation that President Laporta was displeased with Xavi after he publicly discussed the club's financial struggles, which could impact next season. Reports suggest former Bayern Munich manager Hansi Flick might replace Xavi at Camp Nou.

This marks Xavi's second departure from Barcelona, having left as a player in 2015 before returning as manager in 2021 to succeed Ronald Koeman. Xavi led Barcelona to a La Liga title last season, their first since 2019 and the first without Lionel Messi since 1999. However, this season, the team struggled with consistency and rarely challenged champions Real Madrid in the title race.