Xavi addresses rumours surrounding his future at Barcelona

In January, Xavi announced that he would be leaving Barcelona this summer, but at the end of last month, it was revealed that the 44-year-old had reversed his decision to leave.

There is now fresh speculation surrounding a potential exit for the club's legendary former midfielder due to alleged tension with president Joan Laporta.

It is believed that Laporta was unhappy with comments from Xavi regarding the club's ongoing financial issues and potential difficulties when it comes to winning next season's La Liga title.

However, Xavi has played down suggestions that his exit is imminent, with the Barcelona boss preparing to continue in his role until he hears otherwise.

Xavi plays down suggestions he could leave Barcelona

"The club reassures me and gives me hope and we continue with the same ambition. I understand all the noise, but it doesn't change anything," Xavi told reporters ahead of Sunday's La Liga clash with Rayo Vallecano.

"I am not interested. I receive information, but I am interested in having the confidence of the president and Deco, which is still intact. Nothing has changed. I understand that the media have to publish anything, but for me nothing has changed.

"We will sit down. If there is something to talk about, we will talk about it. It's been three weeks since we sat here to announce that it was still going on.

"Absolutely nothing changes. If there is any change, we will say so. I'm calm and looking forward to tomorrow's game.

"I'm focused on tomorrow's game. I'm not focused on whether I deserve it or not. These things tend to happen.

Barcelona are looking to secure second spot in La Liga

"I am answering things that come out in the media. The president didn't tell me that. He has told me that it is very important to win to secure second place.

"I am happy because I am at the best club in the world. Criticism makes me improve. It doesn't change anything. I want to show that we can continue to be competitive. This year hasn't been good for us, but I'm convinced that things can work out well."

Barcelona have won their last two La Liga matches against Real Sociedad and Almeria 2-0, and they will be bidding to make it three victories in a row when they take on Rayo on Sunday evening.

The Catalan outfit are second in the table, four points ahead of third-placed Girona, who will take on Valencia in their penultimate match of the campaign on Sunday night.

Xavi has been in charge at Camp Nou since November 2021, and he boasts a record of 88 wins, 24 draws and 29 defeats from his 141 matches at the helm.