Xavi Hernandez has broken his silence after Barcelona announced his departure ahead of the final LaLiga clash of the season.
Despite announcing last month that he will be staying next season, the Catalan giants announced on Friday morning that the club legend will not be in charge next term.
The 44-year-old took to social media and penned a message to the supporters ahead of his final game as manager on Sunday evening.
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"Dear fans, my time on the Barça bench will end on Sunday. It's never easy to leave the club of your life, but I do it very proudly, after two and a half years at the head of a dressing room that has been like a second family," Xavi said on Instagram.
"I want to thank the support and affection of the fans, who have always been by my side and have always shown me the same love as during my time as a footballer. From Sunday I will be one more culer (Barcelona supporter) in the stands, either now at the Olympic Stadium or in a few months at the Nou Camp. Because before I am a player or a coach, I am a Barcelona fan and I only want the best for the club of my life, which will always have me at its disposal.
"I have worked with a group of fantastic players and with a spectacular staff. Thanks to all of them, we have been achieving the objectives set, culminating last year with a League and a Super Cup.
"This season things didn't go as we wanted, but we put our heads together and helped grow a new generation of young footballers from La Masia who inspire all of us Barcelona fans.
"Many thanks to all. To the fans, the players, the staff, the club employees, the President, the Board of Directors, the sports directors, the media and everyone with whom I have shared the journey over these two and a half seasons. I wish the best to the club that I carry in my heart.
"Visca Barça."
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