Xavi in emotional exchange with Barcelona fan: “I have to think about the club”

Footage of an exchange between Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernández and a member of the Blaugrana’s fanbase has piqued widespread attentions online late tonight.

The clip in question showcases the former in his car, departing the club’s training ground.

After stopping to engage with a group of supporters to sign autographs and pose for photos, Xavi was inevitably questioned on his bombshell announcement over the weekend.

On the back of Barca’s latest damaging defeat on Saturday, Xavi of course confirmed his intention to step down from his post upon the season’s close.

And the news has since been met with something of a mixed response in Catalunya.

Whilst many a Blaugrana supporter are of the opinion that the club’s former midfielder does not require what it takes to lead them back to the top of the game, others have argued that he should have been afforded more time.

And it is an individual from the latter camp whose words have on Monday caught the headlines.

This comes with Xavi, in responding to the fan in question, having been endearingly honest, in assuring that his exit comes with Barcelona’s best interests in mind.

The exchange, in English, can be read in its entirety below:

Fan: “I will miss you very much, Xavi.”

Xavi: “No man, the club must continue.”

Fan: “But you are part of the club.”

Xavi: “Because I am part of the club, I have to think about the club now.”

Fan: “I swear I will miss you, I love you so much.”

Xavi: “Thank you and I love you too.”

Conor Laird | GSFN