Follow usBarcelona faced further scrutiny following a lackluster performance and a defeat against Antwerp, intensifying the pressure on manager Xavi Hernández to engineer a turnaround.
The 3-2 loss in Belgium on Wednesday, while inconsequential in practical terms due to Barcelona already securing a spot in the Champions League knockout rounds, added to the recent struggles. Xavi’s star-studded squad had suffered a 4-2 defeat against Spanish league leader Girona over the weekend, dealing a blow to their domestic title defense.
The aftermath of the Antwerp loss saw Barcelona-based sports papers criticizing the team harshly. Mundo Deportivo’s headline read “No Forgiveness,” while Sport went with “Enough Is Enough!”
Facing a crucial Spanish league game against Valencia on Saturday, Xavi referred to it as a “final.” Despite the mounting challenges, he affirmed that he enjoys the support of the club and his teammates. The upcoming match represents a pivotal opportunity for Barcelona to bounce back and alleviate the growing concerns surrounding the team’s performance under Xavi’s leadership.
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