Xavi Hernandez has admitted that to Barcelona, Jose Mourinho at Real Madrid always provided an extra source of motivation.
Madrid will see Mourinho leave by mutual consent at the end of the season, bringing to a close a three-year spell that has seen numerous clashes on and off the pitch between Los Blancos and their Catalan title rivals.
“Let’s see what happens without Mourinho, but I am convinced that Madrid will continue to win titles with Mourinho or without Mourinho,” mused Xavi to reporters today at a promotional event.
“With Mourinho at Madrid we have continued to win titles. In the three years that he has been here, we have seen them take the occasional title, but we have continued to win.
“That must remain our goal.
“He is a controversial Coach. He has always been an extra motivation.
“I do not know if we will miss him or not.
“But, his departure is a major loss for Spanish football because he is an important Coach, in the global soccer scene.”
The midfielder was also asked his opinion on the possibility that Barca could soon confirm a deal to sign Neymar.
“Neymar is a great player and is set to become one of the world’s best. At the moment everything is guesswork but he is a great player and certainly would fit in.”
