Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti has taken a sharp swipe at Xavi, asserting that he refuses to stoop to the same level as his Barcelona counterpart.
Real Madrid currently leads the La Liga table after 22 games, securing a 2-0 victory over Getafe on Thursday evening. Girona, their closest rivals, trail by two points, while Barcelona is eight points behind in fourth place.
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Despite Xavi guiding Barcelona to the La Liga title last season, increased scrutiny arose after their loss in the Spanish Super Cup in Saudi Arabia last month.
The pressure intensified following a 5-3 home defeat to Villarreal on January 27, prompting Xavi to surprisingly announce his departure from the role at the end of the current season.
Meanwhile, on Friday, Xavi claimed referees in La Liga are favouring Real Madrid, telling Spanish media (quotes via Goal): “I already said that I don’t like that they condition the referees, but they continue to do it every week.
“The referees are going to whistle conditioned … I agree 100 per cent with the president’s words. It’s a reality and we can’t deceive Barcelona fans.
“Even a blind man can see what is happening … Everyone is seeing it, but it is the media that has to say it.”
Ancelotti expressed his predictable displeasure at Xavi’s assertions but maintained a measured response when questioned by reporters before Real’s La Liga match against Atletico Madrid on Sunday.
He said (quotes via beIN Sports): “I think I am a professional, and as a professional, I don’t want to lower myself to this level out of respect for Spanish football.
“Don’t ask me more about this because I don’t want to lower myself to a level that is not for professionals.”
The next El Clasico game between the two teams, currently scheduled for April 21, will certainly be one to keep an eye on.
