If it was 12 months ago that Xavi’s Barca job seemed in danger, things look far worse now. Back then, in January 2023, the Blaugrana were in an unstable position. They had crashed out of the Champions League at the group stage for the second straight year, and their league form was inconsistent.
A damning loss at the hands of Madrid in El Clasico in October offered a measure of just how big the gap was between the two teams. Barca were much improved, but Madrid were simply better.
And then came the Supercopa final. Once again, Madrid seemed the much-favoured side to get the win. Barca had needed extra time to beat Real Betis, and had a day less to prepare than their sworn enemies.
But in a showing that established Xavi’s credentials as a top-tier manager, the Blaugrana turned in a dominant performance. The stat sheets suggested an even game but in reality, Madrid were nowhere near Barca. The 3-1 scoreline flattered Carlo Ancelotti’s side, while Xavi claimed his first piece of silverware – however ‘tinpot’ it might’ve been deemed – as a manager.
That fixture proved to be the impetus for five memorable months, with Barca going on to reclaim the Liga crown, inspired by one of Europe’s best defences. And that all started with one victory in a tournament that didn’t really matter.
Now, 364 days later, Barca have the chance to do the same again. Things are worse this time – Barca have fallen out of the title race, while injuries have crippled their chances at European success – but Xavi knows how a season can turn on one result. A win here really could make all the difference.