There has been much speculation surrounding the potential return of Xavi Hernandez to FC Barcelona. The former midfielder, who spent his entire playing career at the Catalan club, is now managing Qatar Stars League team Al-Sadd SC.
Xavi’s Career at Barcelona
Xavi was a key player in Barcelona’s golden era under Pep Guardiola, leading the club to four Champions League titles and eight La Liga titles. Known for his exceptional vision and passing ability, Xavi was a vital cog in Barca’s midfield machine.
After retiring from playing in 2019, Xavi began his coaching career at Al-Sadd SC. He has since led them to one league title and one Emir Cup win.
The Rumours
Rumours of Xavi’s return to Barcelona began circulating in January 2020 when the Catalan club sacked manager Ernesto Valverde and appointed Quique Setien as his replacement. It was reported that Barca had approached Xavi about taking over as manager, but he turned them down due to concerns about the timing of the offer.
Since then, there have been multiple reports suggesting that Xavi is being lined up as a future Barcelona manager. In an interview with Catalunya Radio last year, he confirmed that he had held talks with Barca’s sporting director Eric Abidal and CEO Oscar Grau about potentially taking over at Camp Nou in the future.
The Current Situation
Barcelona are currently managed by Ronald Koeman, who took over from Setien last summer. The Dutchman has endured a difficult start to his tenure at Camp Nou, with Barca currently sitting third in La Liga behind Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid.
Despite Koeman’s struggles, there have been no indications that Xavi will be returning to Barcelona anytime soon. The 41-year-old recently signed a contract extension with Al-Sadd SC until 2023, and has stated that he is fully committed to the Qatari club.
The Future
While Xavi may not be returning to Barcelona in the immediate future, it’s clear that he is being lined up as a future manager of the club. His success at Al-Sadd SC has shown that he has the potential to become one of the best coaches in the world.
If and when Xavi does return to Barcelona, it will be a momentous occasion for fans of the Blaugrana. His return would bring back memories of a golden era for the club, and could potentially usher in a new era of success under his leadership.
- Conclusion: While Xavi’s return to Barcelona may not be imminent, it’s clear that he is being groomed as a future manager of the club. His success at Al-Sadd SC has shown that he has what it takes to lead one of the biggest clubs in world football.
References:
- https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11833/12081078/xavi-turns-down-barcelona-offer-to-replace-ernesto-valverde-as-manager
- https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55614772
- https://www.goal.com/en/news/xavi-holds-talks-with-barcelona-over-becoming-future-coach/cyvq7u7j1w2d1t8n0idkxdr5o
- https://www.espn.com/soccer/qatar-stars-league/story/4243766/al-sadds-xavi-signs-contract-extension-until-2023