It’s hard to say where there was more euphoria among Spanish fans last year. In Vigo, they celebrated because former Champions League winner and Liverpool icon Rafael Benitez arrived to manage Celta. Meanwhile, in Barcelona, they were on cloud nine after winning the title with Xavi Hernandez, and that too by promoting talented youth from their academy. However, in football, things change quickly, and a few months later, both coaches face immense criticism. That’s why their encounter will be fascinating.Rafa Benitez (Celta coach): “Pressure on Xavi and his resignation? Last season they were champions, they did not do much wrong, but always being on top is difficult. Every coach has to be aware of the reality.” pic.twitter.com/l6OQPDosa4— Barça Universal (@BarcaUniversal) February 16, 2024 In Vigo, they expected at least a battle for European places from Benitez, but instead, Celta is fighting to survive in the Spanish top tier. They are just above the relegation zone, with a mere 20 points from 24 games. Their closest pursuer, Cadiz, has only three points fewer. And it’s no secret that Rafa would have been sacked long ago if he hadn’t cleverly composed his contract when he arrived. He signed for three seasons, and it would cost Celta dearly to replace him now. Their treasury couldn’t handle paying Benitez and his coaching staff for another two and a half years while also bringing in a whole new set of staff.Of course, the 63-year-old coach has no intention of stepping down. He is aware that his last two engagements (Chinese Dalian and Everton) were unsuccessful, that his career is on the decline, and it’s a big question what awaits him after Celta. Therefore, he defends his work with sharp words.”I know people are looking for victories, but also that we play well. However, they must understand that we can’t do it, this is our reality. This project will grow, we are already doing better than when I first arrived.”##NAJAVA_MECA_7881122##His words don’t match the results. In the last four rounds, Celta suffered three defeats at home in Vigo against Real Sociedad and Girona (both 1-0) and as a guest against Getafe (2-3), while their only points came against Osasuna (3-0). The situation in Barcelona is also dire. It has long been clear that the Catalans will not fight for the title; they are third in the table with 10 points less than Real Madrid. They even have to worry about their place in the Champions League, as the fifth-placed Athletic Club is only five points behind.After the defeat against Villarreal (3-5), Xavi stated that he would not fulfill his contract to the end and that he would leave the club at the end of the season. With this move, he triggered a short-term shock therapy; his chosen ones defeated Osasuna at home (1-0) and Alaves (3-1) in Vitoria, but they returned to their old ways in the last round and stumbled against weak Granada (3-3).Benitez also commented on the situation Xavi finds himself in.”I learned at Real that only the first place is acceptable at that level. Last season Barcelona was the champion, this season wasn’t bad either, but it’s not easy to always stay on top. Every coach must be aware of reality.” 🚨 Xavi Hernández: “Rafa Benítez is an excellent coach and his team is very clear about things. Away things are going better for us than at home.” pic.twitter.com/z5xCxhCTAl— barcacentre (@barcacentre) February 16, 2024 When the current Barcelona coach officially leaves the club, in addition to that title, he will also be remembered for pushing Gavi forward, giving him space for full affirmation, and delivering world football another big star. There have been speculations in the media for some time that, along with Xavi, Gavi might leave Barcelona, and Paris Saint-Germain is interested in his services. Although the current Barca coach won’t have any say in who comes and goes beyond this season, he is desperate for Gavi to remain in a Blaugrana shirt for a long time.”He must stay and become one of the captains of this team in the future. There is no doubt, for me, Gavi is the future of Barcelona.” LA LIGAFridayVillarreal – Getafe 1-1 (0-1)/Moreno 56 – Maksimovic 24/Saturday16.00: (1.48) Atl.Madrid (4.40) Las Palmas (8.00)18.15: (1.80) Osasuna (3.40) Cadiz (4.90)20.30: (4.10) Celta (3.50) Barcelona (1.90)23.00: (2.40) Valencia (3.35) Sevilla (3.25)Sunday16.00: (5.70) Rayo Vallecano (3.80) Real Madrid (1.63)18.15: (2.20) Granada (3.50) Almeria (3.50)20.30: (3.05) Mallorca (3.00) Sociedad (2.55)23.00: (2.10) Betis (3.30) Alaves (3.70)***odds are subject to change
