Xavi reveals how he really feels about the Pep Guardiola comparisons

The 43-year-old has been frequently compared to the former legendary Barcelona manager, Pep Guardiola, since his appointment in November 2021.

Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez feels the comparisons between himself and Pep Guardiola are ‘unfair’ and not beneficial for his coaching career.

Despite leading Barca to their first LaLiga title since 2019 in his first full campaign, along with a record-equaling 26 clean sheets, 11 of the club’s 28 victories have ended 1-0.

This stat alone has raised questions about the way Xavi has set his team up to play. Not helping matters are the comparisons to Manchester City coach Guardiola, who deployed a more thrilling style of attacking football during his spell in Spotify Camp Nou dugout between 2008 and 2012.

“The figure of Guardiola is weighing me down as a coach,” Xavi told TV3 about the comparisons to his former coach and teammate.

“I don’t think it’s fair [to repeatedly make the comparison]. It happened to me when I was a player as well. Everyone has to turn the page.”

Barca to award him a new contract

That said, Xavi retains the full support and confidence of the Barcelona board. He is reportedly close to signing a new contract until 2026.

“Yes,” the ex-midfielder said when asked if his contract talks are progressing well. “We will come to an understanding sooner rather than later.

“I know the club will make as much of an effort as they can and there won’t be any problems. I’ll end up renewing and, hopefully, I can continue here for many years.”

Xavi’s current deal in Catalonia expires in June 2024.