Barcelona are reportedly open to the possibility of sacking manager Xavi at the end of the season.
In January, the club legend announced that he intended to resign from his position in the dugout once 2023-24 had reached a conclusion, a consequence of Barcelona's poor form at the time and other factors that come with the territory.
However, Barcelona then proceeded to put together a 13-match undefeated streak in all competitions, a run that included 10 wins and a Champions League last-16 victory over Napoli.
Despite the defeat that would follow against Paris Saint-Germain in the quarter-finals, Xavi and club officials held positive discussions about extending his stay at the club.
That resolution was made public on April 24, with the understanding that the 44-year-old would see out his contract until the end of 2024-25.
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Barcelona left unhappy with Xavi?
According to Spanish football analyst Guillem Balague, speaking on X, the situation has now changed once again, this time Barcelona being open to sacking Xavi.
President Joan Laporta has allegedly been left unhappy with Xavi questioning whether it is realistic to expect Barcelona to challenge for the La Liga title next season.
Earlier this week, Xavi acknowledged that "the financial situation will impact us again", as well as insisting that Barcelona fans "must understand" that the club can no longer go out and sign any player that they desire.
On the back of those comments, Laporta is said to be willing to entertain alternatives to Xavi with further discussions expected to take place in due course.
Barcelona are on the brink of confirming second place in La Liga, requiring one win from games against Rayo Vallecano and Sevilla to guarantee the runners-up spot behind Real Madrid, who are 14 points clear.
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Which managers are under consideration?
Part of the reason for convincing Xavi to stay was a lack of suitable replacements, who were either unavailable, would cost too much money or were speaking to other clubs.
Balague namechecks Hansi Flick and Rafael Marquez as two candidates to replace Xavi, both of whom are available to take over the reins.
Flick is under consideration for a return to Bayern Munich, depending on whether another surprise U-turn involving Thomas Tuchel materialises or not.
Marquez, a club legend at Barcelona, has been in charge of Barcelona's 'B' team for the past two years, gaining experience of working with numerous academy graduates who have recently made the step up to the senior ranks.
Darren Plant
