Since the 44-year-old’s statement, Barcelona have been unbeaten in 13 matches and claimed impressive victories over top clubs such as Atletico Madrid, Napoli and Paris Saint-Germain. This has led to suggestions Xavi could make a U-turn on his call to move on at the end of the season, although the Spanish tactician has said on more than one occasion that his mind has not changed.
The Blaugrana’s hunt for his replacement has seen them linked with several top coaches from around Europe, but it appears the club’s B team manager Rafael Marquez will fill his shoes should he depart. Appointed in 2022, the former Mexico international has taken charge of 72 matches and claimed 43 victories.