Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti understands Xavi’s decision to leave Barcelona.

Xavi will step from his position as Barca’s head coach at the end of the season.

Real Madrid head coach Carlo Ancelotti recognizes the reasons for Xavi’s impending departure from Barcelona but refuses to identify any comparisons in their roles.

Xavi hinted internal factors were among the reasons as he announced following a 5-3 defeat at the weekend by Villarreal that he will leave his position as Barcelona boss at the end of the season.

The 44-year-old had a decorated playing career at Barcelona and led them to the 2022-23 La Liga title in his first full season at the helm but they sit well adrift of leaders Girona this season.

Asked whether he comprehends why Xavi is set to step down, Ancelotti told a press conference: ” I understand it, I don’t want to make comparisons. I respect his thoughts and his decisions.

Real visit Getafe on Thursday looking for a sixth successive league win that will take them back above surprise leaders Girona.

” It’s a key game;” Ancelotti said . ” it will be very difficult and it’s going to be very demanding for us. The team is doing well and hopefully, we can put in a good performance. ! Getafe are solid, they play good football and are strong in their duels. It will be a tough game and vital for the league and the season.

we have to get the first goals in every match. we have played games where we have taken the lead and in others were have had to come from behind. If we come back it’s because we have got the quality in the squad.

Real trailed 2-0 against Almeria and 1-0 at Las Palmas in their two most recent contests but hit back on each occasion to win by the odd goal.

Luka Modric was an unused substitute in both matches, with the 38-year-old’s game time dwindling this season.