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Xavi gets round of applause and hug from Barcelona chief as dramatic U-turn confirmed
Barcelona boss Xavi was given a round of applause after confirming he is to remain in his role.
The club legend announced in January that he was to step down as boss of the cash-strapped club at the end of the season.
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However, since his announcement, the Catalans have seen an upturn in form which has seen them leapfrog Girona into second place in the La Liga table.
Former defender Rafael Marquez had been linked with taking over from Xavi but those plans have now been put on hold.
The widely-reported news was officially announced at a press conference on Thursday, where Xavi got a public show of affection from Barca president Joan Laporta.
Xavi was quick to credit Laporta as a central figure behind his decision to stay at the club.
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"I'm a huge Barça fan," Xavi told reporters on Thursday. "I have a high level of trust with the president and the board of directors. The complicity and support of the players has also been key.
"I also want to thank the fans for their love and support."
"The project is not finished," he continued. "I think this is what's best for the club." Stability is one of the keys to success.""
Laporta was equally delighted at the news and said: "Today, I have the satisfaction of informing you that Xavi will continue as the coach of Barça.
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"It's great news that Xavi is staying. Stability is one of the keys to success."
Barcelona are set to end the season without silverware following last weeks Champions League exit to Paris Saint-Germain and Sunday's 3-2 defeat against Real Madrid in the race for the La Liga title.
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With a top four spot all-but assured, Xavi will already have one eye on squad reinforcements ahead of next season.
Barca have been linked with a move for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak as a replacement for 35-year-old Robert Lewandowski.
Meanwhile, speculation over Frenkie de Jong's future continues to rumble on while PSG have been linked with an audacious move for Barcelona wonderkid Lamine Yamal.
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