Barcelona want to appoint a ‘top’ manager to replace Xavi, former midfielder ruled out – report

It was on January 27 that Xavi Hernandez announced his decision to step down from the Barcelona job at the end of the season.

The 44-year-old former midfielder and club legend felt that the team needed a change in dynamics and felt his exit would be in the best interests of everyone involved.

Now, the hunt for a new manager is underway, with sporting director Deco and club president Joan Laporta, working hard to identify Xavi’s successor as soon as possible.

Barcelona want a ‘top’ manager

Now, SPORT is reporting that Barcelona want to name a ‘top’ manager as the replacement for Xavi come the end of the season.

Deco will be in charge of screening the options and preparing the final shortlist, with the final say being with club president Laporta.

Numerous names have been linked with the Barça job, but the roadmap to identify the right candidate remains clear: the objective is to sign a top coach, of the highest level and international experience.

Laporta’s big dream is undoubtedly Jurgen Klopp, who is leaving Liverpool and who two years ago was already in contact with the current board of directors without reaching an agreement. But finances and the German’s desire to take a sabbatical make things complicated.

Hansi Flick is another name on the agenda, although he has not been discussed at this point.

Meanwhile, the name of former midfielder and current Bologna head coach Thiago Motta has been heavily linked, but he is ruled out of contention at this point. The same applies to Girona boss Michel because of their lack of experience at the highest level.

Thiago Motta ruled out of race to replace Xavi. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)

Antonio Conte is understood to have been offered to the club, but is not being considered due to the difference in philosophies between the Italian and Barça’s ways.

Rafa Marquez an option

The report adds that if Barcelona are unable to find a ‘top’ manager to succeed Xavi, they could end up turning to Barça Atletic manager Rafa Marquez.

The former Mexican defender has not hidden the fact that he would like to manage the first team. And it seems unlikely that the Mexican will spend another year in the reserve team waiting for his chance.

The final decision will not be delayed because Barcelona need to plan for the summer and the coach who comes in will certainly require an extensive reshuffle of the squad unless it ends up being Rafa Marquez.