Xavi hit out at repeated questions about Barcelona’s plans for the summer window
In a furious press conference on Sunday, Xavi told reporters to stop questioning him about the club’s transfer plans.
Although Barca has played one fewer game than Blaugrana and can retake second place with a victory against Real Sociedad on Monday night, the Blaugrana are fighting to even finish second in La Liga this season after falling two points behind Girona, their Catalan rivals.
At his most recent news conference, Xavi was asked a lot of questions regarding how placing third would affect Barcelona’s transfer intentions. The manager tried his best to respond but ultimately lost his temper.
“I understand that right now it’s being written that some [players] are transferable or non-transferable, but right now there are no transferables as long as La Liga continues,” said Xavi.
“I don’t believe that [coming in second] affects planning. It matters to us to come in second. However, the plans will remain unchanged. Winning our last four games and ourselves will be a relief.”
When asked if he had decided what would happen to Ansu Fati, who will return this summer from his miserable loan with Brighton & Hove Albion, Xavi responded, “Stop asking me about planning because I won’t say any names.”
According to reports, Barcelona is almost finished signing Real Betis midfielder Guido Rodriguez, who has been a long-term goal and will be free to move elsewhere when his contract expires. Guido Rodriguez would be Barcelona’s first summer acquisition.
Although club executives have stated openly that no formal plans would be made until Barcelona has a clearer understanding of its financial status, the club does have many ambitious goals. Before discussing transfers, club vice-president Rafa Yuste emphasised the necessity of meeting La Liga’s 1:1 formula, which allows them to be at a financial strength where they can spend €1 for every €1 raised.
A lot of discussion will surround Fati’s future as he gets ready to return to Camp Nou. The 21-year-old went on loan to Brighton last summer to regain his form and fitness. However, despite making 25 appearances across all competitions, he has only started three games in the Premier League and scored four goals overall.
It will also be necessary to hold talks on Vitor Roque, whose representative recently threatened to look for a long-term departure from Barcelona this summer if they could not ensure that he would play a substantial amount of minutes the following season.