Robert Lewandowski was on a shortlist of players that Xavi was happy for Barcelona to sell in the summer transfer window before he was axed.
The Poland international was joined by Joao Felix, Vitor Roque, Oriol Romeu and Marcos Alonso on Xavi’s shortlist.
Diario Sport are reporting that Lewandowski’s name on the list was one of the reasons why Joan Laporta decided to part ways with Xavi after all.
Xavi had decided that Lewandowski was surplus to requirements because he wanted an attacker “with more energy and more intensity” especially when it comes to pressing.
The Barcelona boss also wanted a No. 9 who “participates more in the game, creates numerical superiority and helps to collectively connect the team.”
Lewandowski’s attitude towards the younger players in the squad also did not sit well with Xavi, according to Sport.
The coach found the Pole to be “very distant and serious” with the young players and lacking the “understanding and empathy” needed for their development.
