Xavi clears up rumours about his relationship with sporting director Deco

Deco's arrival at FC Barcelona as the new sporting director has raised some controversy due to alleged differences with Xavi Hernández, the first team coach. However, it has been Xavi himself who has come out to clarify the situation. 

"(Speaking well of Mateu Alemany and Jordi Cruyff) doesn't mean that I speak badly of Deco, I have an extraordinary relationship with him, since we were teammates," Xavi said.

"We will be at ease, we are going to be at one. We have been talking to Deco for several days now, we will do a good job. The debate is over. We are on the same wavelength, we already were on the pitch. He has leadership and personality."

Deco takes over as the head of Barça's sporting department following the exit of Jordi Cruyff and the departure of Mateu Alemany, who is continuing to work with the club until Sept. 2.

Xavi acknowledged that he has been aware of Alemany's departure for days.

"It's a decision taken by the club," he added. "We have been (working together) day to day, just like with Jordi. Very comfortable.

"The work Mateu has done has been extraordinary. The current Barça cannot be understood without his work and that of Jordi Cruyff."