Xavi braced for doubts over his Barcelona future after Supercopa defeat

Xavi has admitted he expects questions to be asked about his future at Barcelona but has backed himself to turn things around.

Barcelona, who have fallen eight points behind in the La Liga title race, were humbled 4-1 by Real Madrid in the Supercopa de Espana final - a particularly poor result in a season which has been full of underwhelming performances.

After the game, Xavi acknowledged the growing pressure on his shoulders but insisted he remains the best manager for the project.

"I am prepared [for the questions]," he said. "I have no problems. I think we are capable of reversing the situation. I am strong and I am calm. It is a step back in the project but things continue. There will be a lot of criticism and it is deserved.

"We have shown our worst side and it is a lost title. We have to self-criticise but I still believe in the project.

"We have won titles and we have done it with me as a coach. Last year, we won titles. We have to apologise [for this defeat] but there are reasons. A year ago, we had reasons to say it was a new era. We have to hold on, we have to reset and fight for the three remaining titles."

Sporting director Deco offered his support to Xavi and stressed that his future at the club is not under question.

"The question doesn't make sense," he said. "It's a final. It's not the time to talk about Xavi's future.

"He has the confidence of the president, the sports management team... It's a tough defeat that has to be discussed, but it doesn't change anything."

Xavi remains under contract at Barcelona until the end of next season, but the club do have the option to extend by a further 12 months.

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