European Leagues
Barca agree renewal with Xavi Hernandez until 2026
Without question, FC Barcelona have seen an inclining trend over the last few seasons in terms of their development as a team and an improvement in their overall structure. A major contributor to this progression has been their new head coach who just happens to also be a former club legend.
Xavi Hernandez took over the Catalan club as their head coach in November of 2021, making it almost two years now that he has been leading FC Barcelona under his mentorship. The manager initially signed a contract that would stay in place until June of 2024, which is less than a year away.
As a result, Barcelona have been looking to settle a renewal agreement with the 43-year-old manager and it seems that progression has undoubtedly been made. The faith showcased by club president Joan Laporta in his side’s head coach has been an undeniably important factor in this reported finalization.
According to Spanish outlet SPORT, FC Barcelona and Xavi Hernandez have reached a complete agreement for his extension, one that will now see him remain head coach of the Catalan outfit until 2026. The contract negotiations were previously reported to be scheduled to take place in September following the conclusion of the summer transfer window.
Other sources, such as Mari Carmen Torres of MARCA, have also acknowledged this and stated that an agreement for a renewal has been reached between all concerned parties.
One of the major negotiating prospects was that of an improved package from a financial perspective. Emerging reports claim that this has been addressed and Barcelona have now agreed to those improved wages for both the manager and his staff.
As of right now, it remains to be seen when this deal ends up being presented officially and how soon other reliable sources begin to chime in as well. For now, the Catalan coach and his squad take a break from club football due to the international break and are set to return against Real Betis on the 16th of September at the Montjuic stadium.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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