Four reasons why 49-year-old Portuguese tactician is on Barcelona’s shortlist to replace Xavi – report

With Barcelona on the lookout for a new manager to replace Xavi at the end of the season, the La Liga champions have identified some targets and prepared a shortlist of possible candidates.

Indeed, as reported a while back, Barça president Joan Laporta is preferring a German manager like Jurgen Klopp or Hansi Flick, while director Deco is said to be preferring Sergio Conceicao of FC Porto.

A report from Javi Miguel of AS outlines the four reasons why Conceicao is under consideration by the Blaugrana to succeed Xavi.

Resourcefulness

During his time at Porto, Conceicao has displayed the trait of resourcefulness and being able to adapt to the club’s needs and situations, something that would come in very handy at Barcelona.

After all, the Catalans are going through a difficult financial situation which has made it tricky for them to operate freely in the transfer market.

Faith in youngsters

Another key aspect that counts in favour of the 49-year-old Portuguese tactician, tying in with the above reason, is his willingness to trust and back young talents from the club’s youth and academy ranks.

There is a plethora of young talent coming through the La Masia ranks and Barça believe Conceicao would count on them and make the most out of them.

Conceicao to replace Xavi? (Photo by LLUIS GENE/AFP via Getty Images)

The Mendes factor

One of the major reasons Conceicao’s name is under consideration is the fact that he is represented by Jorge Mendes. The superagent has a great relationship with Barça president Joan Laporta and has some degree of influence at the club as well.

Mendes already represents a number of Barça players like Lamine Yamal, Alejandro Balde, Joao Felix, Joao Cancelo, and is close to becoming the agent of Hector Fort as well. And his connections at the club make Conceicao a strong candidate.

Set to leave Porto

Finally, another big reason why the 49-year-old features on Barça’s potential wishlist is that he will be leaving FC Porto at the end of the season. Conceicao’s contract expires at the end of the season and he is not keen on signing a new one, meaning he would be free to join Barça.