Xavi will not join a different club next season amid widespread interest

The future of Xavi Hernandez has been in focus following Barcelona’s loss to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.

It was reported that Xavi might consider staying at the club if Barça had beaten PSG. But following the loss, it is almost taken for granted that he will be leaving the club at the end of the season.

Despite a rather underwhelming campaign, Xavi is likely to be a hot prospect in the managerial market, knowing the Spaniard has the ability to nurture young talents.

Xavi likely to take a sabbatical

However, according to SPORT, Xavi does not immediately plan on joining another club if he does end up leaving Barcelona in the coming summer.

As far as the former midfielder is concerned, only two options exist: either he continues at Barça or he takes a break, with the latter seeming the likeliest course of action.

It appears Xavi is planning on taking a sabbatical after his spell at Barça, which spanned close to three years.

Xavi is set to take a break this summer (Photo by JOSEP LAGO/AFP via Getty Images)

During his time at the Catalan club, Xavi has been in charge of 135 competitive matches, winning 85 of them. He has a league title and the Spanish Super Cup title to his name as well, with Barcelona securing both the trophies last season.

Xavi has been courted by several European clubs ahead of the coming summer, with Ajax among the teams keen on acquiring his services.

Xavi, though, is likely to take a sabbatical, if he decides not to change his mind over his future at Barcelona.

Who will replace Xavi at Barça?

With over a month left before the season comes to a close, time is running out for Barcelona as they look to scour the market for a new manager.

The Catalans have been linked with numerous options, including Hansi Flick, Luis Enrique, Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto De Zerbi.

However, Barça are not considering the option of Flick or Enrique anymore, whereas Nagelsmann is unlikely to come to Camp Nou. De Zerbi, meanwhile, lacks experience in managing a top club.

Keeping that in mind, Barcelona are increasingly favouring an in-house replacement in the form of Rafa Marquez.

The Mexican has received support from Joan Laporta, who likes the fact that he has exposure to Barça system and is good at developing youth talents.