Barcelona not interested in appointing Champions League-winning manager as Xavi replacement - Reports
According to a report by Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona are not interested in signing Champions League-winning manager Hansi Flick. The German boss has allegedly been ruled out because of his lack of exposure to Barcelona and Spain.
The former Bayern Munich and Germany boss was initially believed to be the front-runner to replace Xavi Hernandez at the end of the season. However, his lack of experience in Spain might prove to be a problem for the Blaugrana hierarchy.
The Catalan side is famed for having strict adherence to their culture and traditions, with the club often preferring to hire managers who previously played for them. Decisions like that have helped Blaugrana maintain a clear playing and recruitment identity over the years.
Flick, who has spent his whole career in Germany, might prove to be too alien an option to the Catalan ecosystem. Therefore, the club is reportedly rethinking its choice to replace Xavi Hernandez (another former Blaugrana player) at the end of the season.
Xavi announced in January that he would step down as Blaugrana boss at the end of the season. His imminent departure could cause panic bells to ring. However, the Catalans are sure to find another former player familiar with their inner working before the end of the season.
Rafa Marquez leading the race to succeed Xavi as Barcelona boss - Reports
According to ESPN, former Barcelona defender Rafa Marquez has emerged as the favorite to replace Xavi as Barcelona boss.
Marquez, who was a Mexican international, spent seven years of his playing career with Los Cules and is familiar with the inner workings of the club. Like Pep Guardiola before him, he currently manages the Barcelona B team, where he is doing an impressive job.
The former defender reportedly enjoys growing support to ascend to the hot seat from within the club and is an ally of President Joan Laporta. Due to financial constraints, the Blaugrana are unlikely to offer guarantees about support in the transfer market.
However, this might work in Marquez's favor as he was a part of the youth setup that produced gems like Lamine Yamal, Hector Fort, Marc Guiu, and Pau Curbasi. With the 45-year-old looking likely to be the Catalan side's first Mexican head coach, a new era might begin in Catalonia in the summer.
For now, the Blaugrana will be keen to return to winning ways, with the Catalans set to face eternal rivals Real Madrid in El Clasico this weekend (April 21).