Barcelona could be served with huge setback in pursuit of Xavi replacement

A significant number of options Barcelona and Joan Laporta consider worthy of replacing Xavi stem from Germany. One such candidate is the manager of the German National Team – Julian Nagelsmann.

The former Bayern Munich manager has gone through a difficult period with the national team in recent months, throwing his future into doubt. Immediately after the latest international break, however, there appears to be a dramatic change in his situation.

Renewal on the horizon?

As revealed by SPORT, Nagelsmann’s contract with the National Team ends this summer and the German Federation are now showing interest in renewing his deal.

The two parties are expected to meet in the coming weeks where Nagelsmann will be presented with a renewal offer until 2026, albeit subject to certain conditions.

One such condition is linked with the team’s performance in the upcoming European Championships they are set to host. Should Germany fail to make it out of the Group stage, the contract could be mutually terminated.

The manager does not see the proposal with bad eyes but is still open to accepting an offer from a club. Needless to say, his decision will play a big part in Barcelona’s planning for a new manager.

Off the agenda?

As revealed earlier this week, Barcelona have eliminated four prime contenders from the race to replace Xavi, citing different reasons for each candidate.

In Nagelsmann’s case, Barcelona feel the coach lacks experience at the highest level, for he has only coached Bayern Munich and Germany at the elite level.

Considering Barcelona’s relative lack of interest and the sudden resurgence of the German National Team after the return of Toni Kroos, it would thus not be surprising if the tactician opts to accept Germany’s offer.

The coming weeks will be critical, and the EUROS could well prove to be the deciding factor.