Manchester United has reportedly approached former Barcelona manager Xavi to take over as the club’s new head coach. This news comes from sensational reports in Spain, stirring up much excitement among fans and experts alike.
Xavi, a legendary midfielder, is currently available after being dismissed by Barcelona last week. His departure followed a challenging few months leading the Catalan giants. Initially, he had announced his intention to leave in January, but Barcelona convinced him to stay until April. However, he was ultimately replaced by German coach Hansi Flick before the team’s final game against Sevilla.
Xavi’s availability and other interests
Without a job, Xavi has attracted interest from other prominent football entities. AC Milan and the South Korean national team have already contacted him. According to AS, Manchester United has also made an informal approach amid uncertainty regarding the future of their current head coach, Erik ten Hag. Despite this interest, Xavi prefers to take a year off from management and plans to look for his next role in 2025.
During his time in Barcelona, Xavi achieved significant success. He managed 142 games, winning 89 of them. Under his guidance, Barcelona claimed the La Liga title and the Spanish Super Cup in the 2022/23 season. This past season, he led the team to a second-place finish in the league, just behind Real Madrid, and took them to the Champions League quarter-finals.
In his farewell press conference, Xavi acknowledged the challenges of managing a club like Barcelona. “To the new manager, I tell you: ‘You will suffer’. This is a very complicated place to be. This is a difficult job, and you have to be patient. I have the feeling that everything I have done in these two-and-a-half years has caused an earthquake,” he said.
Barcelona released a statement expressing gratitude to Xavi and his coaching staff. They thanked them for their commitment, dedication, and generosity and wished them success in their future endeavors.
Potential candidates for Manchester United’s managerial position
While Xavi remains a potential candidate, Manchester United is also considering other notable managers. Erik ten Hag’s future is still uncertain despite the team’s FA Cup victory over Manchester City. Alongside Xavi, names like Mauricio Pochettino, Thomas Tuchel, Roberto De Zerbi, and Gareth Southgate are being discussed as possible replacements for Ten Hag.
Each of these managers brings unique skills and experiences to the table. Pochettino is known for his impressive work at Tottenham Hotspur, Tuchel has found success with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, De Zerbi is a rising star with a growing reputation, and Southgate has led the England national team to significant achievements.
As Manchester United navigates this transitional period, the club’s leadership faces the crucial task of choosing the right person to steer the team forward. The decision will impact the club’s performance and its long-term vision and strategy.
Manchester United’s interest in Xavi marks an exciting possibility for the club’s future. With several top-tier managers in the running, the club is poised to make a significant decision that will shape its path in the coming years. Fans eagerly await updates, hoping for a new era of success at Old Trafford.
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