Barcelona legend Xavi Hernandez has dusted off his Copa Mundial's at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper training ground this week - and fans are loving every second.
After weeks of rumours surrounding his future at Qatar-based club Al Sadd, it was announced last week that the La Masia product would become head coach at the Camp Nou, two weeks on from Ronald Koeman's departure.
Xavi's return has generated some much-needed optimism amongst supporters and this week, fans are revelling in the fact he's getting heavily involved in training, pinging balls to his players in Thursday's 'workout' session.
As you can see in the clip above, the former Spanish international is wasting no time in his new role, demanding the very highest of standards from everyone involved in training.
In fact, the 41-year-old, who made 767 appearances for the Catalan giants during a trophy-laden 17-year spell, has already outlined a set of strict club rules and principles that all players and staff must follow.
Spain publication AS claim this is the comprehensive list of Xavi's rules:
1. Players must arrive 90 minutes before training starts.
2. Staff must arrive two hours before training starts
3. Players must eat at the club's training ground
4. Fines have returned
5. Fines will be doubled for repeat offences/offenders
6. Players must be home before midnight two days before a game
7. Players must give their all in training
8. Player's off-field activity will be monitored
9. 'Risky' activities are no longer permitted
10. A good image is essential
It is clear that Hernandez is taking no prisoners after Barcelona's poor start to the 2021/22 campaign.
In his official presentation in front of thousands of fans earlier this week, the 41-year-old gave supporters an insight into his philosophy and expectations.
"This is the biggest club in the world and I'm going to work hard to reach your expectations," he said. "Barcelona can't accept a draw or a defeat. We have to win all the games.
"I come prepared. My DNA didn't change. We need to take charge, have the ball, create opportunities, be intense. We have a mission to rescue many things that were lost."
Thoughts on the appointment of Xavi? Is he the right man to take Barcelona forward?
Let us know in the comments.
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Xavi, Football, Barcelona, La Liga
