Barcelona could promote in-house coach to replace Xavi, Deco likes the option

With more and more affirmation coming out about Xavi Hernandez leaving Barcelona at the end of the season, the hunt for a new manager is already underway.

And it appears that a familiar name, already at the club, could be best positioned to replace Xavi at the helm of affairs next season.

Rafa Marquez to replace Xavi?

Indeed, as per Jordi Baste (h/t FCBWorld), the option of Rafa Marquez succeeding Xavi as the first-team manager at FC Barcelona is growing.

A number of people at the club, including sporting director Deco, likes the option of the Mexican tactician taking over the reins of the senior setup.

Marquez, a former Barcelona defender, has done a good job since taking over as manager of the reserve team, Barça Atletic, since last season.

The subsidiary side is pushing for promotion to La Liga 2 under Marquez’s tutelage and it appears that his work with the reserves has impressed the Barcelona hierarchy.

As such, the chances of him taking over from Xavi at the end of the season are growing considerably at this point.

Apart from Marquez, names like Hansi Flick and Sergio Conceicao are also doing the rounds while Thomas Tuchel could also be in consideration given he will be leaving Bayern Munich at the end of the season.