Ahead of the LaLiga match against Osasuna, Xavi stated that the former Mexican defender, coach of Barcelona's B team, is his "friend" and downplayed Márquez's words, who claimed that "you cannot say no to an opportunity like this (to coach Barcelona)."

"Perhaps his words were taken out of context, but it is legitimate and natural that he is preparing to one day coach Barcelona," Xavi said in a press conference, also emphasizing that he wants his remaining four months in charge "to be the best" and has communicated this to his players.

"We need a reaction. The players need to step up, and they know it. We depend a lot on them being inspired," said Xavi, who highlighted that some of them made him "emotional" with their reaction upon learning that he would not continue leading the team next season.

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Osasuna's visit will be the first match since the announcement of the Terrassa-born coach: "I approach the match with even more responsibility, if possible, because we still have a lot at stake. I continue with the maximum enthusiasm and energy. It has freed me a bit personally, but I am very motivated and I have made this clear to the players."

Therefore, Xavi called for "unity" and the support of the fans to "compete" against a rival that is "a defensive rock," at a very delicate moment for the club and the team.

"We are more vulnerable defensively, and the team's performance has dropped. The footballing level is not adequate, which is why I decided not to continue. I arrived here at one of the most difficult moments in history, and I don't think our work is valued enough. At the beginning of the season, I already decided not to continue," he explained.

Xavi insisted that the "wear and tear" comes because "they make you feel worthless on a daily basis," something that has happened "to all the coaches" who have sat on the Barcelona bench and will also happen "to the next one."

"It is not enjoyable; it seems like you are risking your life at every moment here, and this is not a quality of life. It is cruel, and this does not happen at any other club," he reflected.

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Despite everything, Xavi does not rule out coaching Barcelona again someday: "I have already said that Barcelona will have me for whatever they need, but I think they don't need me now."

The Egarense insisted that he is "a man of the club" and that is why he adapted to the difficult economic situation that prevented him from reinforcing the squad as he wanted: "And I think very good foundations have been laid for the future for the next coach who comes."