Xavi Hernández doesn't usually keep quiet about what he thinks, and this time hasn't been the exception. The former FC Barcelona coach has come out to defend Marc-André ter Stegen in the midst of a complicated situation. His message has ruffled feathers and has added some extra tension in the blaugrana locker room.
Xavi spoke of Ter Stegen as "always exemplary." With that simple but forceful phrase, he wanted to make it clear that the goalkeeper remains a pillar of the team. However, those words have sparked an intense debate, because they come at a delicate moment for Barça.
Ter Stegen's situation
Ter Stegen has been in the eye of the storm after his statement. The goalkeeper wanted to ease the tension with the club, showing his intention to cooperate so that everything gets solved quickly. Specifically, he offered to provide his medical report so that the commission deciding his recovery time would have all the information.
This gesture shows that Ter Stegen puts the team's well-being first and doesn't want his personal situation to hinder Barça's functioning. But the problem isn't just medical. The board made the decision to take away his captain's armband, something that didn't go unnoticed by either the fans or his teammates.
Support inside and outside the locker room
Despite everything, Ter Stegen isn't alone. His teammates, like Pedri and Frenkie de Jong, have defended him publicly, making it clear that the goalkeeper remains a key figure within the group.
Xavi, who knows the German well, recalled his leadership and commitment, from the time they shared the locker room to when he was coach. That relationship of respect gives strength to his words, but it also complicates the situation, since they can be seen as criticism of the board.
The controversy and the division in the club
Barça is going through a tense moment. Internal decisions are creating division among the fans and the atmosphere isn't easy. Ter Stegen's figure has become a point of unity for some, and a source of conflict for others.
Xavi, although he's no longer on the bench, remains very connected to the club. He knows what it's like to go through tough times at Barça and his public support for Ter Stegen reveals that, even from afar, he doesn't lose interest or passion for the team.