Xavi Hernandez has confirmed he will forgo the salary owed to him by Barcelona as he prepares to leave the club at the end of the season.
Sunday’s match against Sevilla will mark the end of his 2.5-year tenure as head coach of the Catalan giants.
Despite the nature of his departure, which follows weeks of pleas from club president Joan Laporta for him to stay, Xavi remained gracious in his remarks about the Barcelona leadership.
Speaking to the media, he expressed his gratitude and respect for Laporta and other club officials.
“I’m grateful to the president and I haven’t had any problems with the leaders. I’m a club man and I’ve adapted to the circumstances.
“The president gave me his reasons and I have no choice but to accept his decision,” Xavi said.
The former Barcelona player and coach also announced his intention to take a break from management following his departure.
He added he is not open to taking up any managerial job at the moment, stating the need for rest.
“I haven’t thought about it. Now I think I need a break. I love this club and hopefully it will give me the opportunity to work again in the future at the club of my life.
“From here, listen and see what the future holds. A while resting – I’m sure I need it.”
There had been speculation regarding whether Xavi would accept the compensation owed to him, which could impact Barcelona’s financial planning for the upcoming transfer window.
However, Xavi clarified that he would not take any payments, staying true to his previous commitment.
“There won’t be a problem on this, I said it before. I will keep my word,” Xavi confirmed.
