Following a controversial 3-2 defeat at the hands of Real Madrid, Barcelona’s title hopes are all but gone and the club are staring at a trophyless campaign.
Keeping that in mind, the Barcelona board is likely to fast-track the preparation for the summer ahead, with the club expected to endure a busy transfer window.
Regardless of whether or not Xavi stays at Camp Nou, Barcelona have the daunting task of not only strengthening the squad but also balancing their books and returning to the 1:1 rule.
No big signings this summer
However, a recent report from Toni Juanmarti has painted a rather grim picture of Barcelona’s prospects in the upcoming summer transfer window.
The Spanish journalist claims Barça are not in a position to sign any top-quality players this summer. As such, the club won’t make any big-name signings and are likely to depend heavily on player sales.
This comes even against the backdrop of Barcelona reportedly prioritising a move for Joshua Kimmich – their number one target in the defensive midfield position.
Juanmarti adds that barring a miracle, returning to the 1:1 rule is virtually impossible for the Catalans, which in turn, could greatly cripple the club’s powers in the market, once again.
How will it impact Xavi’s future?
Barcelona having their hands tied in the market once again might not bode well for Xavi’s prospects of continuing at the club.
It is clear that Xavi wants Barça to sign top-quality players if he opts to stay at the club. But that is not a possibility given the club’s ongoing financial hardship.
The Barcelona board knows they cannot make any promises to Xavi. As such, the Spaniard could be allowed to move on as he desired in the first place.
Should Xavi leave, Barcelona are likely to look for a coach who is willing to work with limited finances and build the team from scratch. Perhaps that is what makes Rafa Marquez such an appealing option for the board right now, as it prepares for life without Xavi.
