La Liga: Decoding Barcelona's emphatic run under Xavi
Barcelona have stepped up under former legendary mid-fielder Xavi Hernandez, who took over the club after Ronald Koeman was sacked back in October 2021. Xavi was confirmed as Barca manager on November 6, 2021. Under Xavi, Barca have climbed up the ladder in La Liga and are pushing for a top three finish now. They were earlier in a spot of bother.
Why does this story matter?
Barca were placed ninth in the standings when Xavi took over. They had claimed 17 points from 12 games. Prior to Xavi's first league game as Barca manager, the club were held 3-3 by Celta Vigo in what was interim manager Sergi Barjuan's final match in charge. And now, Barca are third in the league standings as they have impressed under the Spaniard.
Barca's performance under Xavi in La Liga
Barca have played 14 La Liga games under Xavi so far. In these 14 games, Barca have clinched nine victories. They have drawn four times, besides losing just a solitary game. They have picked up 31 points from these 14 matches. Notably, Barca are unbeaten in 11 league games since a 1-0 defeat to Osasuna in December.
Barca beat Espanyol in Xavi's maiden league match
Barca claimed a 1-0 victory over Espanyol in what was Xavi's first league game in charge. Memphis Depay scored a 48th-minute penalty to help Barca claim all three points. It was a massive result for Xavi in what was his maiden win as Barca manager.
Barca are third in La Liga
Under Xavi, Barca have scored 29 goals across 14 league games, besides conceding 14. They have scored four-plus goals versus Atletico Madrid and Valencia. Barca are currently third in the standings. They have 48 points from 26 games. They have a goal difference of +19.
