Barcelona coach Xavi says the departure of Mateu Alemany will be a blow.
The sporting director will leave Barca for Aston Villa at the end of the season.
Xavi said, "It is similar to that of Busi (Sergi Busquets).
"We lose a very important asset. Mateu is a person who has been essential for the restructuring of the club. They have been important, both he and Jordi, to work as staff.
"It is a significant loss but it is a personal decision that must be accepted.
"I wish him well."
