Former Barcelona manager Xavi has emerged as a potential candidate to replace Erik ten Hag if Manchester United decide to make a managerial change.
Softfootball said the Spaniard has been contacted twice in recent months, according to the Daily Mail via Mirror, as uncertainty continues to surround Ten Hag’s future following the club’s disappointing start to the season.
Reports also revealed that four senior Manchester United officials, led by chief executive Omar Berrada, travelled to Barcelona last Thursday. However, club sources insist the trip was largely connected to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s support for the Ineos Britannia sailing team competing in the America’s Cup.
Xavi has been without a club since leaving Barcelona in the summer after guiding the Catalan giants to the La Liga title. His attacking philosophy and strong ties to Pep Guardiola’s footballing principles are believed to make him an attractive option for the Old Trafford hierarchy.
The 44-year-old is also seen as a readily available high-profile coach, something United reportedly lacked during their managerial review in the summer. Having had time to reflect on his departure from Barcelona, Xavi could now be open to taking on a new challenge in the Premier League.
Ten Hag retained his position after last season’s review, but United’s poor start to the current campaign has intensified scrutiny over his future, with the Red Devils still struggling for consistency and languishing in the bottom half of the league table.
