Former Barcelona defender reveals why Xavi Hernandez was responsible for his departure | OneFootball

It is always a challenge for any player to make a place for themselves at a club like FC Barcelona. That is a direct consequence of the variety of talent that already exists at such clubs and the competitiveness that is naturally created from it. Ultimately, however, some players end up leaving Barcelona after failing to establish themselves.

Such was the case for Oscar Mingueza, a defender for Celta Vigo right now but formerly a player for FC Barcelona. Under the mentorship of Dutch coach Ronald Koeman, the Spanish defender saw himself get several opportunities to establish himself in the team.

Unfortunately, however, his stay did not last long once Xavi Hernandez succeeded his Dutch predecessor as the Barcelona head coach. Now, the 25-year-old La Masia talent devotes his time to another La Liga side, but he recently provided more insight into his original departure from the Catalan club.

As highlighted by Mundo Deportivo, Mingueza believes that Xavi Hernandez and him did not fit well together and he even suggested that his former coach may not have liked him from the start:

“When Xavi arrived, we didn’t fit well. Maybe he just didn’t like me, or whatever it was.”

However, Mingueza did not completely blame just Xavi alone for his departure. Instead, he seemed to take some accountability for it being a decision he made himself to regain his confidence and consistency to play:

“I didn’t have the best mindset in the world, and that’s why I left Barça—to try to regain my motivation and enjoy football again.”

Yet, over the course of this season, Mingueza has become a notable presence in the Spanish First Division. One of the best creators in La Liga this season, the defender has 5 assists to his name already and his numbers put him up against the very best that the league has to offer.

However, Barça have ended up even considering the possibility of bringing back the Spanish defender if possible. While the player seems to be determined to stay and continue to prove his worth at Celta Vigo, the Catalan giants did take notice of his performances this season. Interestingly, however, a reunion is coming up just shortly as Barça and Celta Vigo are set to clash in their next La Liga encounter.