Barcelona consider women's team manager as Xavi's Replacement
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Barcelona president Joan Laporta sacked Xavi Hernandez || Image credit: Imago

Barcelona consider women's team manager as Xavi's Replacement

Ayoola Kelechi 13:29 - 19.05.2024

Xavi's time at Barcelona could be up, with the club considering a shocking replacement

As Barcelona faces a potential managerial change, speculation is mounting about who might replace Xavi Hernandez if the current manager is eventually sacked. Among the candidates, an unexpected name has emerged: Jonatan Giraldez, Barcelona Femeni’s head coach.

Xavi’s future hanging in the balance

Xavi’s tenure as Barcelona manager is under scrutiny, with his future set to be determined in the coming days after a recent disagreement with the club’s hierarchy. If the decision is made to part ways with Xavi, Barcelona will need to find a suitable replacement quickly.

Xavi Hernandez and Jose Mourinho | Photo Credit: BeSoccer, VOI
Xavi Hernandez and Jose Mourinho | Photo Credit: BeSoccer, VOI

Several candidates are already being considered, including former defender Rafa Marquez who is currently the manager of Barca Atletic. However, the club is also looking at other internal options to take over the first team.

Barcelona eye Femeni coach

According to a report from El Chiringuito, Barcelona is contemplating Femeni head coach Giraldez as a potential successor to Xavi after his stellar work with the women’s team.

Asisat Oshoala and her Barcelona Femeni team celebrate the Super Cup.
Asisat Oshoala and her Barcelona Femeni team celebrate the Super Cup. (Photo Credit: Barcelona Femeni/X)

Although Barcelona already has an agreement allowing Giraldez to join the NWSL side Washington Spirit at the end of the season, they could be willing to break this agreement to appoint him as Xavi’s replacement.

Under Giraldez, Barcelona Femeni have won three consecutive LaLiga F titles as well as the UEFA Women’s Champions League title in 2023. They are also in line to defend their European crown this season after reaching the final against Lyon.

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