Koeman is old news! Barcelona want club legend Xavi to take over as manager

He was one of the best midfielders the world has ever seen, the heart of Barcelona’s most successful side – and he is in line to return! Xavi Hernandez is wanted back in Barcelona to replace current coach Ronald Koeman. The news was broken by Spanish journalist Gerard Romero, who has reasons to believe that new club president Joan Laporta doesn’t want the Dutchman to continue as boss – even if he does win the league.

Joan Laporta isn't happy with Ronald Koeman anymore (©AFP)

Xavi won twenty-five trophies with Barcelona and three for Spain before moving to Qatar ahead of the 2015-16 season. He then finished his career in style, winning the Qatari league in his final season at the club in 2018-19. The following season he was named manager of the squad and soon afterwards completely revolutionized Al Sadd into a near-unstoppable side in the Qatari championship. The Spaniard has quietly gone about his business at Al Sadd, winning six trophies in two seasons so far.

Barcelona kept a close eye on the now 41-year-old, and Laporta had reportedly embarked on the road to bringing Xavi back to Camp Nou. The legendary Barca captain is considering a contract extension offer from Al Sadd and it remains to be seen whether he could be tempted into returning to the club where he’s spent his almost entire life.

Xavi's won everything in his playing career with Barcelona (©AFP)

Doubts about Koeman’s continuity had, however, settled in 2021. Barcelona found incredible form in the league, and youngsters like Pedri, Mingueza, Moriba, and Araujo showed signs of brilliance. La Blaugrana seemed set to perform an astonishing league comeback. Indeed, they were only one victory from rising to the top of the table against Granada, but the Dutchman infamously failed to beat them, and ever since, his future at Camp Nou has been a huge question mark.

Should Xavi opt to stay in Qatar, Laporta would probably turn to another Barca man, albeit not such a well-known one. Current Barcelona B manager García Pimienta has recently said that he was ready to coach the first team. However, Xavi remains the number one target.

Ronald Koeman will soon pay the price for his inconsistent results and inability to dominate matches against high-profile sides. Barcelona need better.