Barcelona rule out move for 41-year-old former midfielder as Xavi replacement

Barcelona have outlined a strategic plan for the future of their new head coach. Given that Xavi will end his tenure at the end of the season, the team from Catalonia is exploring several market opportunities. 

In that context, numerous notable figures are in consideration, including Roberto de Zerbi, Hansi Flick, Rafa Marquez, Jurgen Klopp, Mikel Arteta, and Thiago Motta.

At present, some candidates like Flick and Klopp have gained stronger consideration, while others have been definitively dismissed by the club, despite their names circulating in the media. 

The sports management is resolute in sticking to its established roadmap and journalist Luis Rojo has affirmed via MARCA that Motta happens to be the one who has been completely ruled out by the Blaugrana.

Motta was never considered by Barcelona

Despite rumours surrounding Motta, his name was never truly considered among the candidates for a role at Barcelona, despite his history with the club as a player. 

This was also confirmed by transfer market specialist Fabrizio Romano, who said, “Thiago Motta, mentioned for weeks as a potential candidate for the Barcelona job, is not in the frame for Barca. He’s going to stay in Italy and work in Italy next season from what I’m told.”

Thiago Motta was never considered by Barcelona. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images)

As for Motta himself, the 41-year-old does not seem keen on the move as well. In an interview a few weeks ago, the former Italy midfielder assured that he wants to continue at Bologna and is not even thinking of moving to Catalonia.

Who is on Barcelona’s agenda then?

While Motta is out of the picture altogether, Arteta enjoys favour at Barcelona, yet the stumbling block lies in his commitment to Arsenal. His reluctance to part ways with the London club reduces the likelihood of Arteta joining Barcelona. 

Despite any personal associations, the practicality of the situation suggests that Arteta’s attachment to Arsenal may restrict any potential move to the Catalan club. 

Meanwhile, apart from the mentioned names, the latest entrant in the list is Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel. His difficult situation in Germany is said to aid Barcelona in their pursuit, but it is to be noted that nothing is certain yet.