It seems that the chapter for Xavi at Barcelona will close at the end of the season. The recent defeat to Villarreal at the Montjuic Stadium was damaging, but the consequences are already known. Barcelona will be left without their former legend, and a new beginning at the club is expected.
While there have been reports of Deco looking at other managerial candidates, the reality is that very few figures would be accessible or acceptable personalities to take over from Xavi. The team is currently in a dysfunctional state, and to turn around the situation it will undoubtedly take time.
For this reason, and for the values that Barcelona cares about, there are certain things to look out for. Only coaches with either a strong Barcelona background or established quality will be facilitated by the Catalan giants. As such, SPORT has highlighted the few possibilities that do exist.
The two coaches who possess a strong connection to the club are undoubtedly Rafa Marquez and Thiago Motta. Marquez currently coaches Barcelona Atletic and is one of Joan Laporta’s personal bets. Motta, on the other hand, currently coaches Bologna in the Serie A.
Both these coaches have a strong connection to Barcelona, but there are also options beyond just those two. Another coach that Barcelona really appreciates is Michel, who is currently coaching Girona in La Liga. Almost a fantasy run of sorts, his side is currently competing for the top prize in the league.
The other option really appreciated by Barcelona is that of Imanol Alguacil. He is the current head coach of La Liga side Real Sociedad, and just like with Michel, Barcelona appreciate him for his footballing philosophy and style of play.
While other options could begin to pop up as time passes, these are the primary ones highlighted by SPORT. There are also other coaches who could be without a job in the summer, such as Jurgen Klopp, but that is a story that will materialize over the course of the remaining season.
