Barcelona rule out Guardiola’s return as Xavi steps down

Xavi Hernandez’s decision to leave Barcelona at the end of the season has turned things upside down at Barcelona.

Although the Catalans were enduring a tough season as far as the domestic competitions were concerned, Xavi’s sudden resignation has now forced the club to comb the market for a replacement.

Several big league names have been linked with a move to Catalonia over the past 48 hours, with the list including the likes of Jurgen Klopp, Roberto De Zerbi, and Thiago Motta. Barça are even considering a move for former Hansi Flick.

However, a wet dream for Barcelona fans and indeed the club will be to appoint the likes of Luis Enrique and Pep Guardiola – two managers who have enjoyed immense success at Camp Nou and know the club in and out.

The Barcelona dressing room is already clamping for the appointment of Enrique, who has managed some of the current stars in the past.

However, a recent report from Mundo Deportivo has highlighted that it is, in fact, impossible for Barcelona to re-appoint either Guardiola or Enrique anytime soon.

That is because both managers are employed and have a contract that lasts beyond the upcoming summer.

Enrique, for his part, joined Paris Saint-Germain last summer. The Spaniard is one of PSG’s biggest managerial bets in recent years.

Although PSG haven’t had the smoothest of starts to the season, Enrique remains a key figure and is unlikely to be let off just a year after his appointment.

Guardiola, meanwhile, is currently in his eighth season at Manchester City, which is quite an anomaly given his career track record.

But the Catalan has been quite successful at Man City and is well-settled in England. Just like Enrique, he has a contract at Etihad until 2025.

Barcelona, therefore, must look at other options in their bid to find an able replacement for Xavi, who will remain the head coach until the end of the season.