Barcelona manager Xavi says he will step down at the end of the season.
The legendary former Barcelona and Spain midfielder took charge of the Catalans in November 2021 after leaving Qatari club Al Sadd.
He guided Barca to the Spanish title in his first full season in charge in 2022/2023, but Saturday’s 5-3 home defeat by Villarreal leaves them 10 points behind La Liga leaders Real Madrid.
Xavi said he has given everything to the club and has prioritised it above even himself.
The 44-year-old, who won 25 honours during an illustrious playing career at Barcelona, will officially step down on the 30th of June despite still having a year left on his contract.
The 2010 World Cup winner said he made the decision following talks with Barcelona president Joan Laporta, vice-president Rafa Yuste and sporting director Deco.
He says he believes the club needs a change of dynamic and advised the players to free themselves and play with a lot of tension.
He also said his leaving is good of the board of directors.
Xavi previously said this month that he would pack his bags if his players lost faith in him following a 4-1 defeat by rivals Real Madrid in the Spanish Super Cup.
Barca responded with back-to-back wins, but then went out of the Copa del Rey with defeat at Athletic Bilbao on Wednesday before slipping further behind in the title race at Villarreal.
Xavi says the job has taken its toll and the time is right for him to step back for his mental health.