'This project has to continue!' - Xavi explains why he decided to stay at Barcelona amid incredible U-turn after initially announcing departure

The Barca manager completed an unexpected turnaround on Wednesday, announcing his intent to remain at the club until at least the expiration of his contract in 2025. And on Thursday, he outlined his reasons for staying at the storied club.

Xavi said at a press conference: "You know that I am a very big Barcelona fan and I always try to do the best for the club. The most important thing is to think about the institution. When we met with the president I put my position at his disposal, but I saw that I enjoy great confidence from the president, the sports area and the entire board. The complicity of the players has been very important, they have made me see that this project has to continue. We are working well, it is a winning project. The fans have also made me see that I must continue. strength and ability. The staff too. I think about what is best for the club. In January I thought it was best to leave, but now I see it differently. I think it is the best decision."

The Barca president also backed Xavi to continue to succeed in the role: "This honours him and is another example of his Barcelonisme. He always said that he was giving up his contract year. It is an institutional and sporting issue. Stability is the key. In terms of money, Xavi has behaved with great dignity. He has never behaved with greed."

Xavi's decision comes amid a miserable season for the Blaugrana. They are 11 points behind league leaders Real Madrid, out of the Champions League, and facing a campaign without silverware - just 10 months removed from lifting La Liga for the first time in four years.

The former midfielder is set to stay on the sidelines at Barca for at least one more season. Barca's next fixture is a La Liga clash with Valencia on Monday evening.