Following Erik ten Hag’s departure as Manchester United manager after a recent defeat to West Ham, speculation has risen around former Barcelona coach Xavi as a potential successor.
Also Read: Xavi’s Wife Sparks Speculation on Potential Man Utd Move
United announced Ten Hag’s sacking after the 2-1 loss on Sunday, subsequently appointing Ruud van Nistelrooy as interim manager.
While Manchester United is actively searching for a permanent replacement, Xavi has been one of the most prominent names linked with the role, with rumors suggesting initial conversations between the club and the 44-year-old.
Adding fuel to the speculation, Xavi’s wife shared an Instagram story on Sunday featuring their son wearing a United jersey beside his father.
Despite this hint, reports from Spanish outlets such as Marca and Relevo indicate that Xavi is unlikely to interrupt his year-long break from football, which he planned after stepping down from Barcelona last season.
Xavi reportedly wishes to fully commit to his family sabbatical and is unlikely to consider managerial positions until the next summer transfer window.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher weighed in on the situation, sharing his thoughts on Xavi’s potential appointment at United.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Carragher remarked, “Xavi was a phenomenal player, arguably the best Spanish player in history. He brings instant respect in the dressing room.”
Carragher further praised Xavi’s past achievements, noting that, while Xavi parted ways with Barcelona, he still managed to clinch La Liga in 2023 against Carlo Ancelotti’s Real Madrid—a feat that reinforces his managerial prowess.
Carragher highlighted Xavi’s high standing in the football world, likening him to a future Pep Guardiola figure, and emphasized that his reputation as a player could add significant influence at Manchester United.
