Revealed: The five players Xavi was happy for Barcelona to sell before being axed

Barcelona have decided to part company with Xavi for next season in a decision that has left many perplexed as it came just weeks after the club had said he would stay on.

Catalunya Radio have been analysing the situation and report one of the factors that influenced Joan Laporta’s decision was in the planning for next season.

Xavi had apparently decided on five current first-teamers he no longer needed at Barcelona which did not sit well with Laporta.

The Barcelona coach was happy to cope without Robert Lewandowski, Joao Félix Oriol Romeu, Marcos Alonso and Vitor Roque.

It’s no surprise to see Vitor Roque on the list, as Xavi had already said he could go out on loan, while Marcos Alonso and Oriol Romeu have dropped down the pecking order.

However, Xavi’s decision to include Lewandowski and Felix seem to have caused the problem.

The report states that Laporta did not agree with Xavi (and Deco’s) decision that Lewandowski and Felix could be surplus to requirements.

It’s also claimed that incoming boss Hansi Flick has made it clear that Lewandowski will be a key part of his plans for next season.

As for Felix, his loan is due to expire at the end of the season and there has been talk he could continue despite not being a regular. The fact that Laporta has a good relationship with his agent Jorge Mendes also appears to be a factor.