“Of course, it’s my dream to coach Barca, but it’s not the right time.”

Xavi the legendary Spanish midfielder confirmed that he was approached by the Barca’s officials to manage the club and replace Ernesto Valverde. However, he rejected the offer because Xavi felt that it was too soon in his career to make such a move. 

Xavi, who has played the maximum number of matches for Barcelona, is currently managing Qatari club Al Sadd. Xavi refused to give any further information on the subject. 

The reports suggest that Club President Ebidal approached Xavi while Valverde was still in charge. After Xavi rejected the role, the club announced Quique Setien as the new head coach of club on 13th January. 

“Yes, it’s true that I have had a proposal from Barcelona, they were here to talk with me, but I didn’t accept because I didn’t feel that this was a good time for me,” said Xavi.

 “I’m very grateful to Barca, Abidal and Grau for this proposal. Of course, it’s my dream to coach Barca, but it’s not the right time. I have to be honest with you and everybody.

 “Of course Quique Setien (the new coach) is ready to coach Barcelona. I love him as a coach.

 “My heart is for Barcelona, and now it is for Quique Setien. I wish him all the best; this is the truth; this is what happened.”

Xavi was a legend for the club before retiring in 2015. He played 767 times for the club in a career spanning for 17 years. Xavi lifted 25 trophies (Four Champions League, eight league titles, three Copa Del Rey, two super cups, two club world cup and six Supercopa) in his career for Barcelona. He is often regarded as the most influential player in club’s history and was the architect of team’s success during their most dominant period. 

Xavi proved successful in his international career as well. He won 2010 World Cup and two European Cup in 2008 and 2012 with Spain respectively.

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