Barcelona has confirmed the arrival of Xavi Hernandez as their new manager ending a week of speculation and waiting.
The 41-year-old has signed a three-year contract ending 2024 and will replace former manager Ronald Koeman who was sacked following their 1-0 defeat against Rayo Vallecano.
The news comes after Barcelona paid his release clause in his contract with Qatar side Al-Sadd.
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In his 17-year stay at Barcelona, Xavi Hernandez made 767 appearances for the Catalans and won a total of 25 trophies which consist of eight La Liga titles and four Champions League trophies.
At the moment Sergi Barjuan is the interim manager for the first team and will lead them in their weekend clash against Celta Virgo ahead of Xavi’s arrival set for Monday.
How good is Xavi with Barcelona
The former Barcelona midfield specialist has always been regarded as the best solution for the club’s problem since the departure of Ernesto Valverde in 2020.
Even with the arrival of Ronald Koeman, Xavi stood as the man everyone was looking for but extended his contract with the Qatar side following his impressive season with them.
In 2015 when he left the Catalans, the 41-year-old Spaniard led Al-Sadd to an unbeaten season.
His exceptional qualities have also been praised by Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola who termed him as the perfect man for the job.