Barça Advances to Final Phase in Coach Selection: Four Candidates Emerge

The search for a new coach at FC Barcelona has entered its decisive phase, with four prominent candidates emerging as potential successors to Xavi Hernandez. Since Xavi’s announcement of his departure at the end of the season, the club’s sporting direction has been actively identifying the ideal coach for a long-term project.

The four names currently in contention are Roberto de Zerbi, Hansi Flick, Julian Nagelsmann, and Thomas Tuchel. Each candidate brings unique strengths and considerations, making the final decision pivotal. Sporting Director Deco is set to initiate meetings with the shortlisted candidates before arriving at the conclusive decision alongside Barcelona’s president, Joan Laporta.

The casting process has been deliberate, ruling out dream scenarios like the improbable return of Pep Guardiola or convincing Jurgen Klopp, who seems inclined towards a sabbatical, to take charge at Barcelona. Klopp’s timeline doesn’t align with Barça’s, making him effectively ruled out unless a last-minute surprise occurs.

Among the favorites, Roberto de Zerbi, currently coaching at Brighton, stands out. Despite favorable reports, his €15 million release clause poses a significant hurdle, with Brighton showing no inclination to negotiate. Barcelona is hesitant to pay such a fee, deeming it risky and adding unnecessary pressure on the coach. De Zerbi would need to explore options for a free departure.

In exploring German options, the club has considered three coaches open to joining Barcelona: Hansi Flick (unemployed), Thomas Tuchel (leaving Bayern on June 30), and Julian Nagelsmann (set to part ways with the German national team after the Supercup). Information suggests all three are highly inclined to lead the Blaugrana project under favorable conditions.

While there have been reservations about Flick and concerns about Tuchel’s challenging season with Bayern, Nagelsmann emerges as a potential dark horse due to the alignment of his methods with the club’s vision.

With crucial details on the table, Deco will proceed to the next phase, engaging in discussions with priority coaches. The final decision is anticipated by late March, allowing for seamless planning for the upcoming season in collaboration with the new head coach.