Former Barcelona president displeased by Xavi’s words – ‘Must spread optimism and hope’ | OneFootball

Barcelona’s recent controversy regarding coach Xavi Hernandez has led to a great deal of debate about his continuance.

Following Xavi’s comments related to the club’s poor financial standing, Joan Laporta and co. have reportedly been evaluating the manager’s exit.

Joan Gaspart, president of Barcelona between July 2000 and February 2003, has come out to give his two cents on the matter and the current situation of the club in the program El 10 del Barça, via SPORT.

Gaspart advises Laporta to take Deco’s advice

As a former president, Gaspart is well-versed in overseeing the complex political landscape of FC Barcelona.

When asked what advice he would give to Laporta, he said that Deco must be handed the authority to make decisions over sporting matters.

“Why do we have a sports director? To analyze and provide advice to the Board of Directors. He is the one who must decide, and the president approves.

“The president must listen to the sporting director. I always defended Xavi but I am not an expert in sporting matters, that’s why we have Deco,” he said.

Considering reports have argued that Laporta has delegated the responsibility of deciding Xavi’s future to Deco, the Portuguese may indeed end up having the final say.

Gaspart opposes Xavi’s sentiments

While Xavi merely handed the public a bitter reality check of the club’s situation, many believe conveying such messages as the Barcelona coach is bound to ignite pessimism.

“I did not like Xavi’s statements. I support freedom of expression, but the Barcelona coach must spread optimism and hope,” Gaspart remarked.

Xavi could be on his way out. (Photo by JAVIER SORIANO/AFP via Getty Images)

He justified his stance by arguing that the emergence of several youngsters warrants a more optimistic outlook, especially considering the club had been in a similar situation in the past.

“We have to think about next season with the kids who have been out recently, just like what happened with Pique, Valdes, Xavi, Puyol, Iniesta, Messi (although it is a very special case), plus some signings.

“They will keep winning again and we have to. Be patient, let’s not create a bad atmosphere,” Gaspart said.

Gaspart attempted to sign Buffon

According to the former president, during his reign, he was eager to sign one of the best goalkeepers to have ever lived, Gianluigi Buffon.

“When I was president I tried to sign Buffon on Minguela’s recommendation,” Gaspart claimed.

The move failed to materialize, but it will surely be one of the most notable near-misses in the club’s history.