Barcelona confirmed, on Thursday, the continuity of Xavi Hernandez, after the coach had originally announced his departure 89 days ago. The decision was not without controversy, and came after months of engagement with other coaches. While Hansi Flick and Thomas Tuchel have been frequently mentioned, Rafael Marquez has been one of the leading candidates to replace him.
The Mexican legend has done well with Barcelona this season, and is ranked second behind Deportivo La Coruna in the third division. In the last month or so of the season, they will chase promotion.
Marquez felt he was about to take over from Xavi, and was excited by the prospect – managing the first team was his ambition. His contract with Barcelona Athletic expires this summer, and Diario AS says he has other offers this summer. Barcelona president Joan Laporta will speak to him soon to try to convince him to stay in his position for a third season.
🚨 Laporta assured Xavi that there will be guarantees to sign and have a good transfer period. @sanantheone
— Barca Center (@BarcaCenter) April 25, 2024
It is believed that Barcelona will offer him a new one-year extension, although before Xavi's future was decided, there were rumors that he was keen to move on and take the next step in his career. After a season in which he largely missed the likes of Marc Guillot, Hector Forte or Pau Cobarci, and was constantly robbed of Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez, Marquez believed that putting together a reliable squad was proof enough of his talents.
Laporta and sporting director Deco will try to convince Marquez, as they are keen to have a strong alternative to Xavi in the wings if necessary. Xavi's decision is not without doubt, and his contract expires next year anyway. Meanwhile, there is also the possibility that Barcelona will be looking for a big name next summer, with the contracts of Jurgen Klopp, Luis Enrique and Mikel Arteta expiring next summer as it stands.
