The La Liga giants have sounded out as a familiar face on a couple of times in recent years when finding themselves in need of aspiration from the dugout.
Xavi turned down Barca because of family, professional and contractual circumstances
Xavi has been clarifying why two offers from Barcelona to become their next head coach were rejected. The La Liga giants have sounded out as a familiar face on a couple of times in recent years when finding themselves in need of aspiration from the dugout. However, both approaches have been knocked back, with a club legend continuing to cut his coaching teeth in Qatar, with Al-Sadd not yet of the opinion that the time is right to retrace his steps to Camp Nou. Discussing his decision to reject the two advances from Catalonia, Xavi told reporters: “Fortunately or unfortunately, I turned down Barcelona twice due to different circumstances, family, professional, contractual. And of course, it was tough because I am a Barcelona fan, but it was not the right time.” However, the World Cup winner added: “Whatever comes will come, it will be appreciated, and we will decide.”
Barca already have a coach
“Proposals arrived a few years ago, but it was not the right time. Barca came, and it was not the time. There is no hurry. Xabi Alonso revealed the other day that he wants to manage in his own way, and I can relate to that.” The Catalan side have committed to spending another year under Ronald Koeman, while the Dutchman was told he would be allowed to see out a contract until 2022. The further change could be sought after that, but Xavi is adamant that Barca do not form part of his short-term thinking. He generated a lot of speculation earlier in the summer when returning to Spain, as questions were asked of Koeman, but insists too much is being read into his every step.
Xavi added: “I land in Barcelona, they are waiting for me at the airport, and as soon as I come, people send me messages. But haven’t they told you anything?” Well, no, firstly, because they already have a coach, who is Koeman, who must be respected, and also because I am in no hurry.”