Former Real Madrid midfielder Ivan Campo has hailed the impact Xavi Hernandez has made since taking over the reins as the manager of Barcelona.
Speaking to Radio MARCA, former Real Madrid star Ivan Campo has praised Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez for turning things around at the club in the past couple of months.
Xavi took over the reins at Barcelona at a time when the club were in dire straits. The Catalans were stationed ninth in the Spanish league table when he was appointed as manager. There was a very strong possibility of them missing out on Champions League qualification for next season.
However, in the three months that he has been at Camp Nou, the former midfielder turned manager has brought about a significant turnaround of fortunes. Barcelona secured a crucial 4-2 win over reigning champions Atletico Madrid this past Sunday, which saw them break into the top four of the standings, opening up a two-point lead over the Rojiblancos.
Xavi’s appointment, coupled with some smart purchases, have had a positive influence at Camp Nou and ex-Real Madrid midfielder Ivan Campo lavished the 42-year-old with great praise for the work he has done.
The Xavi effect ✨
(h/t @TomAllnuttAFP) pic.twitter.com/ZrWxsmD6iO
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) February 7, 2022
“He has raised the team again, a team with joy,” Campo said. “Because of the people who have come and the way of playing that he has brought so special to Barça, and those old players with a lot of experience who have regained that positive energy that Xavi gives off when it comes to making a team and the way of seeing football.”
“And when victories like yesterday’s come, important ones, with a 4-1 at half-time to recover ideas and feelings,” added Campo. “And it’s nice to see him celebrate in the locker room.”
Since Xavi took over, Barcelona have lost just four of their 15 matches in all competitions while winning seven. They may have been eliminated from the Champions League after the group stage and the Copa del Rey, but things are starting to look up for them in La Liga. The result against Atletico Madrid potentially could prove to be a major turning point for the rest of the season.
