Barcelona see 49-year-old Jorge Mendes client as an option to replace Xavi, has a good relationship with Deco

The shock announcement made by Xavi Hernandez to leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season has already sparked a search for his successor at the end of the season.

The 44-year-old will move on at the end of the season, bringing an end to a near-three-year stint at the club of his life.

As for Barcelona, they are already on the lookout for their next manager, with names like Jurgen Klopp, Mikel Arteta, Imanol Alguacil, and Thiago Motta being linked to the job.

Sergio Conceicao another option

Now, Mundo Deportivo is reporting that FC Porto manager Sergio Conceicao could be another option that Barcelona are looking at to succeed Xavi in the summer.

The 49-year-old has been in charge of Porto since 2017 and has won a host of titles and trophies during his time at the club.

As per the report, Conceicao has a good relationship with Barcelona director Deco, with the pair being teammates for a short time during their playing career.

Furthermore, the Portuguese tactician is represented by superagent Jorge Mendes, who is very close to Barcelona president Joan Laporta and has some sway in the boardroom as a result.

Conceicao’s contract with Porto expires at the end of the season as well, making him a viable option for Barcelona.

No Barça DNA

After Ronald Koeman’s sacking, Xavi was brought in at the club in 2021 because of his familiarity with Barcelona’s DNA and philosophy.

If the Catalans go down the Conceicao route, that is something that would be lacking – the knowledge of the Barça DNA.

However, his Porto side are known for playing with aggression and intensity, something that was visible during their two UCL group games earlier this season against Barcelona.