The Barça coach spoke with Jijantes about how the dynamics around the team have shifted and what that means for one of its most iconic figures. Xavi Hernandez, the current Barcelona manager, sat down with the well-known interviewer Gerald Romero to discuss the evolving landscape at the Blaugrana and to offer clarity on the status of Lionel Messi, the Argentinian star whose name still resonates deeply in Catalonia and beyond. In the interview, the coach reaffirmed that Messi desires a life that blends competitive football with personal tranquility, a request he says fits Messi’s recent life choices and the changes that have come with his move between Miami and Europe.
“I’ve noticed a change in the last few days, maybe I wasn’t so clear about it at first. You have to respect him, you have to show empathy,” Xavi stated. He acknowledged the immense weight of expectancy that surrounds Messi, underscoring that even a player of Messi’s caliber cannot escape the pressure that accompanies being under the global spotlight. The Barcelona coach emphasized that Messi remains a tenacious professional whose performance should be measured by the full breadth of his contributions, not merely by goals or headlines.
He described Messi’s response to scrutiny as natural and measured, noting that the star has endured a difficult period and now seeks less intrusion into his private life. Messi, according to Xavi, has articulated that stepping back from constant public attention can help preserve his mental and emotional balance, a balance that ultimately supports his longevity on the pitch. The coach pointed out that Messi’s approach is rooted in maturity and a clear-eyed understanding of what it takes to perform at the highest level without sacrificing personal well-being. The message, says Xavi, is simple: reduce pressure where possible, and allow Messi to demonstrate his value on the field when it matters most.
When asked about the expectations surrounding the signing or potential return of Messi to the Barcelona project, Xavi recalled the candid conversations that sparked renewed optimism within the club. He revealed that there was genuine excitement because both parties shared a mutual desire to reunite and contribute to a shared dream. The coach emphasized that Messi’s openness to coming back to the club was born from trust, respect, and a belief in what the team could achieve together. He added that Messi’s willingness to consider a Barcelona chapter again was a powerful signal of the lasting connection between player and club, a bond that transcends transfer rumors and media narratives.
The interview underscored a broader theme: leadership on and off the field requires listening, patience, and a willingness to adapt to a changing football world. Xavi’s reflections highlighted how a star’s well-being can influence on-field performance, how support networks around elite players contribute to sustained excellence, and how careful management can preserve the legacy of one of football’s most celebrated figures. The remarks also illustrated Barcelona’s ongoing commitment to balancing competitive ambition with personal respect for Messi, acknowledging that success is a collective effort informed by the choices of individuals within the squad.
In closing, the Barcelona coach reaffirmed the illusion of immediate certainties and the value of clear, honest dialogue. He stressed that while fans and pundits may seek dramatic headlines, the real story is built on trust, shared goals, and a mutual understanding of what it takes to win big in a demanding sport. The exchange with Jijantes left readers with a nuanced portrait of Messi as both a footballing icon and a human being navigating life at the top level, with Barcelona as a meaningful compass in a career defined by impossible standards. The final takeaway remains that any return or continuation in the Barça saga would be grounded in communication, respect, and a shared vision for the team’s future, rather than quick fixes or sensational speculation [Goal].