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Pep Guardiola, who took home FIFA ‘The Best’ Men's Coach award for 2023, has thrown his full weight behind Barcelona's embattled manager Xavi following their crushing 4-1 defeat in the Spanish Super Cup final against arch-rivals Real Madrid.
Despite the setback, marked by a Vinicius Jr. hat-trick, Guardiola's message was clear: stand by your coach, hold firm, and the tide will turn.
Guardiola's Vote of Confidence
In an industry often quick to judge and act, Guardiola's voice of reason rings loud. "My advice is to keep calm," he stated as reported by Goal, addressing the immediate aftermath of the final.
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22:46 - 15.01.2024
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"Support [the coach and the players] and make the decisions that have to be made at the end of the season." His words were a beacon of support for Xavi, once his student, now facing the brunt of criticism.
Guardiola didn't mince words, expressing his "unconditional support" to both Xavi and the Barcelona players. He urged the squad to "step forward," reminding everyone of their proven quality and the long season that still lies ahead.
This gesture from a coach who has seen it all with Barcelona – from La Liga triumphs to Champions League glory – carries a special weight.
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Looking Beyond the Loss
Guardiola's message was about perspective and resilience. "There is a tendency in football to throw everything up in the air," he remarked, calling for a balanced view of the defeat. He acknowledged Real Madrid's superiority in the final but emphasized the need to learn and move on quickly.
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Meanwhile, Xavi, who led Barcelona to La Liga success last season, prepares to face the storm of criticism post-defeat. However, reassurances have come from the top, with sporting director Deco affirming the board's faith in his management.
Xavi's immediate focus shifts to the upcoming Copa del Rey clash with Unionista de Salamanca, a critical fixture in their hunt for silverware.
Barcelona, currently trailing in La Liga and set for a challenging Champions League round against Napoli, finds itself at a crossroads.
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