Xavi Hernandez will not join Barcelona next season with new Al-Sadd deal
Barcelona legend, Xavi Hernandez, signs a contract renewal with Al-Sadd putting an end to the possibility of his arrival to Camp Nou next season.
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There were strong reports just a day prior, claiming an agreement between Barca and Xavi for the former midfielder to return at the end of the current campaign as the ideal replacement for Quique Seiten.
Those rumors have been put to rest as Al-Sadd have confirmed that the Spaniard has penned his contract renewal that ensures his stay for another season at the least. The 40-year-old has guided the Qatar side to two trophies in his time as their manager but has never been away from the limelight when discussing a move to Camp Nou.
Xavi: Happy to renew my contract with #AlSadd, I’m working with the club’s management during the current period on a number of issues, including the renewal of Akram Afif’s contract, and signing foreign players to replace Gabi and Marco Fabianhttps://t.co/y5yUunEkzG pic.twitter.com/oamTseHo9Z
— 🏆 #77 Al Sadd SC | نادي السد (@AlsaddSC) July 5, 2020
What does this mean for Barca?
Blaugrana have been struggling to play according to their philosophy and have been on a constant search for players turned managers who could elevate the existing squad to a success similar to that of former coaches, Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique. Xavi and Ronald Koeman have been named the favorites to land the spot in the near future with Xavi being particularly favored by many of the 2021 presidential candidates.
While many were hoping to see the former midfielder return next season to bring back the glory days of the past, the coach has decided to end the talk by signing a contract extension for the 2020-21 campaign. This may not be the end for Barca as the Spanish international is expected to be targetted once a new president is appointed next year, which is better for Xavi as he desires management that not only allows him autonomy in regards to transfers and tactics but also one that desires the betterment of the squad’s performance rather than the club’s financials.
Do you want Xavi as the next head coach?