'You will suffer' - Xavi sends strong warning to Barcelona successor Hansi Flick as axed boss insists his 'work hasn't been appreciated enough'

Xavi started off with a roar at Camp Nou in 2021 and soared to greater heights during the 2022-23 campaign as Barca won La Liga with record-breaking defensive numbers. However, they failed to replicate the same performances this season, and after several dramatic twists and turns, Xavi managed his last game as the boss of the Catalan side in a 2-1 win over Sevilla, before firing a warning to his successor. The legendary midfielder also talked about his work at the club not being appreciated enough.

Speaking to the media, Xavi said: "To the new manager, I tell you: You will suffer. This is a difficult job and you have to be patient." On his time being underappreciated, he added: "I think that our work has not been appreciated enough. I took over when the team was in ninth place, finished the season in second place, and won the league the next season."

Former Bayern Munich boss Hansi Flick is currently the likeliest coach to take over from Xavi. It has been reported that the club could announce his arrival in the next couple of days with all the documents signed already between the Catalans and the German. Flick has been said to be a big admirer of Barca and has been learning Spanish ever since it became evident that Xavi's position was under threat.

The Blaugrana, and especially president Joan Laporta, will hope to deliver Flick as soon as possible, with there being a sense of mistrust between the hierarchy and the fans due to the treatment of Xavi over his departure.