FC Barcelona Coach Xavi Addresses Ansu Fati Father Comments And Lionel Messi Talks

FC Barcelona head coach Xavi Hernandez has addressed explosive, critical remarks from Ansu Fati’s father and touched on talks with Lionel Messi that could result in the Argentine returning to the club.

Bori Fati made controversial comments when appearing on Spanish radio program El Partidazo de COPE late on Tuesday evening. Revealing that he had told his son to leave his boyhood outfit, the Guinean also criticized a lack of minutes Fati has under Xavi and teased a switch to Real Madrid.

Xavi was naturally broached on the topic when holding a prematch press conference ahead of his side’s clash with Elche on Saturday night.

As ever, he attempted to defuse the row by saying: “I only care about him [Ansu], not his father or his environment.”

“I have also lived similar situations, he is suffering for his son and I understand him,” Xavi added on Friday.

“He’s a great person and he knows what he’s saying. I see him training and I see him [working] very well,” Xavi continued. “I have confidence and total faith in Ansu. I have spoken a lot with him and I have met with him many times as with many other footballers. I’m the first one that wants him to succeed.”

Regarding Messi, Xavi was asked to comment on his potential return just
just
minutes after the club’s vice president Rafa Yuste confirmed that talks are being held with the Argentine’s camp.

“It is not time to talk about Leo’s return. From here to what can be done is a world away, but I will be the first to do everything possible to bring him back,” Xavi stressed.

“I talk to him often, but now is not the time for the benefit of everyone: for the player himself, for the club, for the current squad …” the 43-year-old trailed off, before concluding: “I wish that he can come back to help us. He’s the best player in the world and in history.”

Messi becomes a free agent on June 30, but his potential return to Barca is not straightforward given competition from Paris Saint Germain, Inter Miami, and the Catalans’ financial woes.