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Article continues belowArticle continues belowArticle continues below<script type="application/json" data-placement="fcplayer-semantic">{"type":"fcplayer-semantic","data":{"embedCode":"//cdn.fcp.codes/embed-code-template/embed-code-template.js#SEMANTIC_5704afb8-c10b-4ba5-9cb4-d7fb6098ef90"}}</script><ul><li>Xavi to honour his current contract</li><li>Has been promised a flurry of signings in the summer</li><li>Laporta working to flesh out a new deal with Nike</li></ul>

Revealed: The promises Joan Laporta made to Xavi to convince legend to stay on as Barcelona coach amid crippling financial crisis

LaLiga

Barcelona

Leganes

Xavi's initial announcement of his departure came in the wake of Barcelona's disappointing 5-3 defeat to Villarreal in January. However, following <a href="https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/xavi-is-staying-barcelona-boss-set-complete-sensational-u-turn-resignation-decision-honour-contract/bltd07c8f1d1a303420" target="_blank">extensive discussions with club president Laporta</a> and other board members on Wednesday, the 44-year-old has opted to <a href="https://www.goal.com/en/lists/project-barcelona-xavi-explains-why-stay-resign/bltec36146e103c98d0#cse249302bd4228296" target="_blank">continue as head coach</a> at the Catalan club at least until 2025.

WHAT HAPPENED?

According to <a href="https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/barca/promesa-laporta-xavi-101571652" target="_blank">Sport,</a> the discussions held between Xavi and the club's hierarchy primarily focused on addressing any existing communication gaps and misunderstandings between the managerial team and the administration. Both parties engaged in a candid exchange of their respective expectations, aiming to foster a harmonious and productive working relationship moving forward.The club is acutely aware of the need to bolster its squad for enhanced competitiveness in the upcoming seasons. Key areas which require reinforcement include midfield, particularly in the form of a dynamic playmaker, and a proficient left-sided forward. While these represent the immediate priorities, there is also a need to strengthen both the defensive flanks as Manchester City loanee, Joao Cancelo, is currently the only quality option at Xavi's disposal.

THE BIGGER PICTURE

Before committing to his continued role as head coach, Xavi sought assurances regarding the club's plans for the upcoming transfer window, according to the same report. Despite the prevailing financial constraints, Xavi received a positive message from the club leadership regarding significant signings planned for the summer.However, the realisation of these plans hinges upon certain preconditions, chief among them being the success of offloading surplus players to alleviate financial burdens. In this regard, Barcelona are already actively exploring avenues to facilitate player sales, thereby creating a financial leeway to engage in robust transfer activities.

XAVI WANTS SIGNINGS

Laporta is also reportedly exploring the possibility of renegotiating the club's existing contract with Nike, Barcelona's primary kit sponsor. He expressed the club's ambition to secure the most lucrative contract in the market and hopes to pull off the deal in the future. The anticipated influx of additional revenue from such renegotiations is envisioned to achieve financial equilibrium which will help them comply with La Liga's stringent financial regulations.

DID YOU KNOW?

Xavi's unexpected reversal of his decision to depart Barcelona marks a significant development for the club, offering a renewed sense of stability and continuity. The focus is already on next season as there is little to fight for in the current campaign - as Real Madrid lead La Liga by 11 points and need just seven more in six matches to conquer Spain for the 36th time. Nonetheless, they would hope to wrap up the campaign on a high by winning the remaining fixtures with a clash against Valencia coming up next on Monday evening.

WHAT NEXT?

Revealed: The promises Joan Laporta made to Xavi to convince legend to stay on as Barcelona coach amid crippling financial crisis | Goal.com South Africa

Joan Laporta has reportedly made some lofty promises to Xavi to convince him to stay on as Barcelona coach despite crippling financial crisis.