Hansi Flick set to replace Xavi at Barcelona
May 24, 2024
After Deco met with Hansi Flick in London and the two came to a verbal agreement, Sky Sports reports that Barcelona is preparing for a managerial change this summer. The former Bayern manager has apparently impressed the club’s hierarchy, notably club president Joan Laporta, with his strategy for reviving Barcelona.
For several months, Xavi’s future at Barcelona has been unclear. He had declared earlier in the year that he would retire at the end of the season, but he later changed his mind following a conversation with Laporta. But Laporta was apparently displeased with Xavi’s recent remarks casting doubt on the team’s capacity to fight with Real Madrid because of financial limitations, and the club president is now believed to be keen to get rid of him.
Having guided Bayern Munich to a historic sextuple in 2020—winning the Bundesliga, DFB-Pokal, and UEFA Champions League—Flick has an outstanding managerial background. Flick has been without a club since splitting from the German national team in September 2023, which makes him a strong contender for Barcelona’s top position.
Barcelona is also looking at internal candidates for the head coach role in addition to Flick. One possible possibility has been identified as Rafael Marquez, the club’s reserve team coach and former Barcelona player. Due to his knowledge with the club’s youth development program and culture, Marquez might be a wise and affordable addition.
This Sunday is Barcelona’s last-ever match of the season, against Sevilla. Any official decision over Xavi’s future is expected to be made after the match.