Xavi Pascual: "There is no war between Barcelona and me"

The Gavà coach has explained that his departure does not stem from any conflict and defends his good relationship with the Club, while encouraging the team to finish the season with one final victory

Barcelona basketball head coach Xavi Pascual held a press conference on Thursday to explain his decision not to continue on the blaugrana bench once the current season ends. Pascual announced his decision on the afternoon of May 27, and on Thursday he wanted to provide explanations to the media in a press conference attended by FC Barcelona president Rafa Yuste; executive Sisco Pujol; presidential advisor Enric Masip; director of Professional Sports Xavier O'Callaghan; basketball sports area advisor Jordi Trias; general manager of the section Juan Carlos Navarro; technical secretary Mario Bruno Fernández; and honorary member Manolo Flores.

"I cannot lose with Barcelona"
Pascual explained that his decision is the result of a deliberate process linked to the wear and tear of this season. "Losses don't allow me to be a person. I cannot lose with Barcelona, and that's what has worn me down." Pascual admitted that this level of self-demand was key to his decision not to continue leading the project. He also wanted to emphasize that his decision seeks what is best for all parties: "I don't want to be a problem for the future. I believe this decision will be good for everyone. Everyone will come out ahead."

He also highlighted his connection to the Club and his Barcelona sentiment: "My love for Barcelona is intact. Coaching Barcelona is the highest you can achieve. I have always wanted to put Barcelona at the top." In this regard, he recalled that he accepted the challenge with enthusiasm, despite initial doubts, and that his relationship with the Club has always been positive.

In harmony from day one
The coach wanted to emphasize from the outset that his decision does not stem from any conflict with the Club: "There is no war between Barcelona and me. The relationship is extraordinary, my Barcelona sentiment is intact." Along the same lines, he made clear that "there has been no problem with the sports management" and highlighted the joint work with Barcelona basketball officials Juan Carlos Navarro and Mario Bruno, from the first day to the last.

On the sporting side, the coach emphasized the strength of the group and the team's desire to finish the season in the best possible way. "The team is breathing with so much desire to finish well this season. Many of us won't continue, but we want to have one last dance and win this Playoff," he explained, focusing on immediate objectives and locker room cohesion.

Finally, the coach closed his remarks with a message of gratitude to the Palau fans: "I'm very sorry for the fans. I can never be as grateful as I am for the support they have shown me. I ask that the Palau continue as it has until now."

Barcelona Basket press release