Barcelona could face massive blow in pursuit of Xavi’s replacement – report

Barcelona are facing a very sticky situation ahead of the summer transfer window as they try to navigate their finances, among other problems, at the club while also trying to reinforce the team in an attempt to compete against the very best in Europe.

And if this uphill task was not enough already, it now seems as if Xavi’s future has been put into doubt once again.

Recent reports have suggested that the administration, and especially Joan Laporta, are unhappy with Xavi’s words about the club’s financial and sporting situation, and are now considering sacking him.

While there are a lot of names on the transfer markets as potential replacements, Barcelona were considering promoting Rafael Marquez from Barça Atletic to the senior team.

However, now even that has been put into doubt.

Xavi, Marquez both out?

According to a report by ESPN, Marquez’s continuity at Barcelona beyond this season is not guaranteed now.

While the Mexican has done some impressive work with the youth team so far and could have been inclined to stay, Barça have not sent him an extension offer. His contract expires in the summer.

Marquez was expected to replace Xavi. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

Furthermore, Marquez believes that he has gained enough experience with Barcelona Atletic, and is not fully convinced about retaining his position. He is convinced that he is ready for bigger challenges.

What are Barcelona’s options now?

In case Laporta truly goes ahead with Xavi’s sacking, Barcelona will have to go back into the market to look for another manager, this close to the start of the summer transfer window.

Thomas Tuchel is a potential option, especially after news claiming that he has decided to reject Bayern Munich’s approach to ask to him to stay.

Hansi Flick is another name Barça will definitely consider. The German was already linked with the job for several months when Xavi had resigned, and seems ready to take the gig.