Deco shuts down rumors of his relationship with Xavi being broken

After Xavi announced leaving the club and the poor results with FC Barcelona, many sources suggested there was animosity between sporting director Deco and Xavi. Deco and FC Barcelona president Joan Laporta wants the team to perform well, and they were not happy with the results but did not expect Xavi to want to leave at the end of the season. Deco was misinterpreted when he spoke about the Barca model needing a change quickly, which seemed like agreeing that Xavi leaving would be good for the club.

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In an interview with Tot Costa, Deco denies talking about changing the FC Barcelona model. Deco said, "To clarify, I never discussed about Barcelona's model. It would be contradictory with what I have seen all my life. I dreamed of playing for Barça for the model. When we talk about the model, we talk about a person who changed the history of the club: Johan Cruyff."

Deco shows respect to Xavi as he denies any animosity towards the Spanish manager. Deco says, "I wouldn't like Xavi to leave, he was renewed because we believed in the long-term project. But he has said personal things, and he has his reasons. I have the same opinion as the president; I would like Xavi to continue. I have a lot of respect for Xavi as a player; he was the best midfielder in the world. He has suffered several processes. I also have respect for him as a coach, he came with a complicated situation and has won a league."

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Deco sees winning the Champions League as a way to convince Xavi to stay at Barca

Deco and FC Barcelona want to win the Champions League this season, and it could be a way to keep Xavi in his eyes. Deco said, "With Xavi, it has been his decision; if he changes, it has to come from him. If we win the Champions League we do not rule out talking to him, we are going to consider it. The sporting staff has not made that decision, so yes. There is a possibility, we will discuss it. We want to go far in the Champions League, win La Liga, so there is still a season and we have to go calmly."