Xavi’s Announcement Opens the Path for Laporta’s Successor Dilemma

Xavi Hernandez’s announcement has triggered discussions about his successor at FC Barcelona. The coach from Terrassa, with a contract until 2025 plus an optional year, revealed that he will leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season. This decision, already significant, gains more weight as it comes just over two years before Laporta’s mandate ends.

The succession process needs to be initiated. Club sources state that they haven’t launched into it yet, but Xavi’s decision, acknowledged by Laporta, opens the way. Several names are under consideration for the coaching position, given that options like Pep Guardiola and Luis Enrique, both contracted until 2025 with Manchester City and PSG, are impossible. Some names have been on the table, while others have demonstrated good performance, making them potential candidates to fill the void at Barcelona.

1. Thiago Motta (Bolonia): Contract until 2024. Motta, a friend and former teammate of Deco at Barcelona (2004-07), is considered despite not having the Barça DNA. Currently coaching Bolonia, he will be available in June.
2. Mikel Arteta (Arsenal): Contract until 2025. Another La Masia alum, Arteta (41 years old) could fit well with the modern and offensive style demanded today. However, he is under contract with Arsenal until 2025.
3. Hansi Flick (Unemployed): The German football scene appeals to Laporta. Previously linked to the Barça job, Flick (58 years old) won the treble with Bayern in 2020. Currently unemployed, he has been associated with Barcelona again.
4. Jürgen Klopp (Liverpool): Contract until 2024, won’t renew. Despite being a dream for many clubs, Klopp (56 years old) announced his departure from Liverpool at the end of the season. However, he declared taking a one-year sabbatical and never coaching an English team again. It remains a utopia at present.

While these options are considered, the club is yet to make a move in the succession process, and the decision lies ahead for Laporta and the Barcelona sports leadership.