Barcelona’s progression to the UEFA Champions League knockout stages following an exhausting match at Estadi Olimpic Lluis Companys was only fitting.
After all, during the previous two years, when the team lost consecutively in the group stage, supporters have suffered just as much as the players.
When the full-time whistle blew, the stadium was filled with celebration as fans were finally spotted grinning. While everyone was in high spirits—the players, fans, coaches, and dressing room included—one particular incident caught the attention of the media.
Laporta and Xavi have a conversation.
After the final whistle of the evening, manager Xavi Hernandez and Barcelona president Joan Laporta exchanged warm embraces, as reported by Toni Juanmarti of SPORT.
After the victory, Laporta went to the Catalans’ dressing room to celebrate and spend time with the manager and his group.
The president’s gesture further indicates his complete confidence in Xavi to complete the project.
Rafa Yuste, Deco, and Laporta have all stated in the open that they have complete faith in the manager, and as a result, they have helped him get through some challenging times.
This week, there were rumors that Laporta’s visit to the Barça Atletico team’s locker room following their match against Cornella was an attempt to support Rafa Marquez in his role as Xavi’s replacement and exert pressure on the latter.
A stepping stone towards achievement
Barcelona had a reasonably good start to the season, but in the later part of it, their on-field performances rapidly declined.
Their humiliating loss in the El Clasico only made their wounds worse and led to more declines in output.
After that fateful night, Barcelona had not shown grit and character until their victory over Porto. This must be considered the first of many steps toward success.
The two forthcoming league games could make or break Xavi’s team’s chances of defending the league championship, so he will need to hope they continue playing well.