Barça in Transition: Xavi, Leadership, and the Path Forward

It remains a heavy topic to digest. Xavi, the seasoned midfielder, revered as a symbol of Barça’s philosophy, the one trusted to safeguard the club’s stylistic legacy, is now facing scrutiny. He was once hailed as the savior who would reclaim the club’s former prestige from the bench, yet many observers feel he has been treated as if he were barely noticeable. Xavi has indeed made missteps. Some would argue he placed an ambitious football blueprint under strain by trying to operate without Messi, Iniesta, and his own presence on the field. His messaging has shifted from day to day, leaving players uncertain and fans divided. The Super Cup defeat against Real Madrid became a catalyst for a broader debate about direction, tactics, and leadership. Carlo Ancelotti’s assessment—highlighting intense pressure and the exploitation of spaces—was seen as proof of the high-stakes chess match that accompanies top-level football. Yet Ancelotti remains poised and respectful, even in rivalry. The essential question remains: what should Barça do next?