Report – In-demand Serie A manager offered to Barcelona as Xavi’s replacement

Journalist Fernando Polo has mentioned via Mundo Deportivo that Bologna manager Thiago Motta, who is currently linked with the Juventus job, has also been suggested as a candidate for Barcelona.

Motta has emerged as one of the standout coaches of this season, largely because of the impressive performance of his team in the Italian Serie A. 

Bologna are currently vying for third place in the league, showcasing Motta’s coaching skills. 

The former Barcelona player has become a popular name and is considered a strong contender to replace Max Allegri, who was recently fired from Juventus. 

However, it is important to note that Motta has not officially signed with Juventus yet. As he clarified yesterday, there is a difference between being wanted by Juventus and actually signing a contract with them.

Barcelona considering Motta and De Zerbi

Thiago Motta has taken Bologna to the third spot in Serie A standings. (Photo by Valerio Pennicino/Getty Images)

In this scenario, someone from outside Barcelona has suggested Motta’s name to a key person at the club. This is in case Xavi, the current manager, is let go, which seems to be the president’s intention. 

It remains to be seen if Barcelona will seriously consider Motta and if he still has the good relationships he once had with people currently at the club.

Meanwhile, it was revealed yesterday that Roberto De Zerbi, another coach who was being considered as a potential replacement for Xavi, is now free from his contract with Brighton.

 De Zerbi had one more season left with Brighton, but he announced yesterday that they had mutually agreed to terminate his contract. This means he is now available for any club looking for a new manager.

In summary, Motta’s name has been brought up as a possible replacement for Xavi at Barcelona. 

The former midfielder has gained recognition for his work with Bologna and is also linked with Juventus. 

Additionally, De Zerbi is now free from his contract with Brighton, making him available for hire. It remains to be seen what decisions Barcelona will make regarding their managerial position.