Spanish media outlet SPORT.es have learned from sources close to the deal that legend Xavi Hernandez and FC Barcelona have reached a deal for him to manage the team.
The former Barcelona midfielder has enjoyed a spectacular start to the season with the Al-Sadd, winning all seven of his opening league games and topping the table as a result.
🔜 Done Deal and confirmed! #Xavi Hernandez has totally agreed personal terms with #Barça and will be the new coach of #Barcelona. #transfers #FCB https://t.co/z3ZMETyCTb
— Nicolò Schira (@NicoSchira) October 28, 2021
Ronald Koeman was under pressure for months, but defeats to Real Madrid and Rayo have prompted his dismissal. The parties have reportedly resolved his contract termination with the Middle Eastern team, something that will cost the Spanish club around £840,000.
The Dutchman managed Barcelona in 67 matches; They won 40 games and lost 16, averaging 2.1 goals per game and allowing an alarming 1.15. He also guided Barcelona to the Copa del Rey success in the 2020-21 season.
Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano has revealed that FC Barcelona have been in talks with Xavi for weeks.
Barcelona board started contacts with Xavi weeks ago. Talks will continue today to check the situation with Al-Sadd and resolve issues. Announcement not imminent yet – process just started 🔵🔴 #FCB
Xavi wants Barça job.
Sergi Barjuan option if FCB will need an ‘interim’ coach. pic.twitter.com/AMT0O4uc2g
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2021
The Blaugrana and Xavi have also agreed on his technical staff: his brother Oscar and Sergio Alegre, as assistants, and Ivan Torres as a fitness coach.
Barca find themselves ninth in La Liga, six points off arch-rivals Real Madrid in first place.
The club runs the risk of exiting the Champions League in the group stage for the first time since the 1998-99 season. The Catalans are currently in third place, having won just once and lost twice while scoring just one goal.
It is expected that Xavi may start his new role during the November international break.
