Xavi Hernandez has set out his tactical philosophy in a bullish opening message as Barcelona manager.
The 41-year-old greeted supporters inside the Camp Nou on Monday afternoon following confirmation over the course of the weekend that he’d left his post in charge of Qatari side, Al Sadd.
In what would likely be music to the ears of supporters following a difficult few months for the club, perhaps their greatest-ever midfielder spoke of the “DNA” he shared with Barcelona, having come through their academy system before starring in the glory period under Pep Guardiola.
“I come prepared,” he said.
“My DNA didn’t change. We need to take charge, have the ball, create opportunities, be intense. We have a mission to rescue many things that were lost.”
Xavi takes over with Barca in ninth. Currently, they sit 11 points off Real Sociedad at the top of the La Liga table, and the new boss called for support from the fanbase ahead of what looks to be a long-term project.
“We need you,” he told the fans.
“Especially during the bad moments. We are in a difficult situation as a club.
“We need you more than ever.”
Xavi’s first game in charge will be a derby against rivals Espanyol on Saturday November 20 when club football resumes following the international break.
