Barcelona have 5-man shortlist to replace Xavi as Joan Laporta draws up managerial target plan: Reports
According to reports coming out of Spain, Barcelona have set up a five-man shortlist as they make preparations to replace manager Xavi Hernandez. This comes after the legendary midfielder-turned-manager upset the Blaugrana board with his comments to the press.
Back in January, after a series of rather sub-par performances, Xavi Hernandez made the decision to leave Barca at the end of the season. However, the head coach managed to turn the tide and lead the Catalan giants on a winning run, also getting them to the quarter-finals of the Champions League.
Although they were eventually knocked out of the continental competition by Paris Saint-Germain and lost the La Liga title to Real Madrid, Barcelona were hopeful. The board eventually managed to convince Xavi to stay on, to the delight of the players, as the head coach announced he would continue at Camp Nou.
However, things reportedly took a strong turn when Xavi made pessimistic comments about the club's future.
Speaking about their potential for silverware, he made it clear that it was not going to be easy, due to the club's rather poor financial status (via GOAL). It is believed that the Barcelona board did not take kindly to this, and they are looking for his replacement.
According to SPORT (via El Nacional), the first manager on their shortlist to replace Xavi is Hansi Flick, who was notably interested in the Barca job earlier this year.
If they are unable to sign the German tactician, the Blaugrana are reportedly looking at his compatriots Thomas Tuchel and Julian Nagelsmann. The latter, however, has renewed his contract with the German national team.
Two other managers have been given some consideration, including Rafa Marquez, who is currently a part of the Camp Nou setup, working with Barca Atletic. Thiago Motta is seen as a potential option as well, as the forward has impressed during his time managing Bologna.
Xavi has rubbished claims of looming Barcelona sack
It is believed that Xavi Hernandez is on the verge of getting sacked after his comments reportedly angered the Barca board. However, the manager himself has downplayed such rumors, telling the press that he would not be leaving the club (via GOAL):
"I have zero doubts that things can go well... I understand that next year we can compete better, I have ambition intact and with this news even more."
The Spaniard also made it clear that nothing had changed, adding:
"I'm interested in having the confidence of the president and [sporting director] Deco, and they transmit this to me. For me, nothing has changed."
Barcelona ended the season without a trophy and Xavi will be hoping to work hard to ensure a more successful campaign when they return after the summer. That is, of course, if he does remain Barca manager.