“He was brave” – Barcelona legend reflects on Xavi’s bitter parting with the club

Xavi is one of many names that resonate with FC Barcelona, as the Spaniard is often considered one of the best midfielders to play in the 21st century.

With over 750 competitive appearances, Xavi has legendary status at Barcelona as well. However, his stint as a Barcelona coach has left a bad taste among many supporters and players alike.

Despite his relative success in two years, Xavi wasn’t always a liked figure in the dressing room and certainly not among the Barcelona board, which led to his sacking in the summer.

Javier Mascherano on Xavi’s departure

In a recent interview, newly-appointed Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano reflected on Xavi’s bitter parting with Barcelona this past summer.

Mascherano, who was Xavi’s teammate during their time together at Barcelona, heaped praise on the midfielder for all his contributions to the club.

The Argentine also credited Xavi for taking charge of Barcelona at a tough time and giving chances to youngsters.

“I think Xavi decided to take charge of Barcelona at a very complicated moment, right? He was very brave,” he said (h/t COPE).

“He took a step forward in many aspects, with many young players starting to play in the first team. Today because of him these young players have a long career at the club,” he added.

Mascherano went on to reiterate Xavi’s status as a Barcelona club legend, putting him on the same list as Inter Miami quartet Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez and Jordi Alba.

“Not only because of his great career with the club, but Xavi is one of the greats like the greats we have here at Inter Miami (Messi, Suarez, Busquets, Alba),” he said.

Lastly, though, Mascherano expressed great sadness at the way Xavi left the club and how the Spaniard now has a fractured relationship with the board and some of the first-team players.

“It is unfortunate that on many occasions the greats end up leaving in a bitter way,” he reflected.