Xavi turns down offer to manage Barcelona’s La Liga rivals
Former Barcelona coach Xavi Hernández has turned down offers to return to La Liga, reportedly refusing to manage any Spanish club other than the Blaugrana.
Loyalty to Barcelona Blocks La Liga Return
According to Spanish outlet Marca, Xavi recently received multiple offers from clubs within La Liga. However, out of respect for his former club, the 44-year-old tactician rejected the proposals, reaffirming his commitment to only coach Barcelona in Spain.
The identity of the interested clubs remains undisclosed, but the report underscores that Xavi has made a firm decision not to coach a direct rival of the Catalan side.
Free Agent Since Departure from Barcelona
Xavi has been without a club since May 2024, when Barcelona replaced him with German manager Hansi Flick. The change marked a new chapter at Camp Nou, with the club seeing a resurgence under Flick’s more aggressive tactical style.
Despite his exit, Xavi’s stock remains high, and he continues to draw attention from clubs across Europe and beyond.
Foreign Clubs Show Continued Interest
Before the 2025/26 season, Xavi was linked to RB Leipzig in Germany and AC Milan in Italy, according to reports from Todo Fichajes. Although negotiations didn’t progress, the interest highlights Xavi’s appeal outside Spain.
A move abroad now seems the most likely outcome for the former midfielder, who previously enjoyed success in Qatar, coaching Al Sadd to eight trophies over three seasons.
Record at Barcelona
Xavi managed 143 matches at Barcelona, registering 91 wins, and winning La Liga and the Spanish Super Cup during his tenure. However, his record against key rivals particularly Real Madrid drew criticism, and inconsistent Champions League campaigns contributed to his eventual departure.
