Xavi the favorite to replace Koeman at Barcelona

Xavi Hernandez is expected to replace Ronald Koeman and take over at Barcelona after the Dutchman was sacked after Wednesday’s 1-0 defeat to Rayo Vallecano.

Barca announced after the game that Koeman had been relieved of his duties after a third defeat in four games that has left the team down in ninth in the table.

Xavi has been regularly linked with a return to Barcelona but it seems the time may now be finally right for the former midfielder to come home and take up his dream job.

Mundo Deportivo are reporting that Xavi has “already agreed” to take the job but his departure from Al Sadd must obviously be negotiated first.

It’s not thought that the Qatari side will stand in Xavi’s way but it could take a little bit of time until everything is agreed for the 41-year-old to come home.

It’s also being reported by a couple of outlets that Barca B coach Sergi Barjuan could take over as interim coach until Xavi is appointed.

Barcelona board started contacts with Xavi weeks ago. Talks will continue today to check the situation with Al-Sadd and resolve issues. Announcement not imminent yet - process just started #FCB

Xavi wants Barça job.

Sergi Barjuan option if FCB will need an ‘interim’ coach. pic.twitter.com/AMT0O4uc2g

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) October 28, 2021

Barjuan could take training on Thursday with the first team. Barca were due to train in the morning to start preparations for their next match against Alaves but that’s now been pushed back to late afternoon.

Catalunya Radio expect talks between Barcelona and Xavi’s agent to start on Thursday but suspect there’s already been contact between the two recently. It’s not expected to take long to reach an agreement.