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Jurgen Klopp and Xavi have been in the news this week after announcing the decision to leave their respective club at the end of the season.
Xavi’s decision to quit came on the back of a series of disappointing results this season, including the recent Copa Del Rey exit at the hands of Athletic Club.
Klopp, in contrast, has decided to mark an end to his Liverpool stint after nine years at Anfield.
Needless to say, both managers’ decision to quit has sent shockwaves across Europe. But it appears Barcelona are sensing an opportunity to potentially hire Klopp next season, as a replacement for Xavi.
Barcelona board considering Klopp
This is according to RAC1, which suggests that Klopp is being viewed as an ideal replacement for Xavi next season.
For those responsible for making a decision on Barcelona’s managerial position, they are seemingly keen on hiring the German in the summer.
Following Xavi’s exit, Barça are keen on hiring someone who can lead the club forward in the years to come, rather than serving a short stint at Camp Nou like managers have in the recent past.
What’s next for Klopp? (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)To that end, Klopp is viewed as an ideal candidate, as the German has an excellent track record of spending many years in one club.
Klopp served seven years at both Mainz and Borussia Dortmund. He will complete a nine-year stint at Liverpool by the end of the season.
That is why the German tactician could prove to be the ideal man to carry forward the Barcelona project, even though his style of play could be entirely different compared to the club’s core tactical values.
Barcelona not considering Rafa Marquez
The report from RAC1 further notes that Barcelona are not considering Rafa Marquez as a replacement for Xavi.
This comes despite the fact that Marquez has recently admitted his desire to coach the Barcelona senior team.
The Catalans, though, are considering other options in the market, including Real Sociedad mastermind Imanol Alguacil.