The name of Xavi Hernández sounds strongly on the football scene International with its possible return to the benches. After his departure from FC Barcelona last summer, when he was replaced by Hansi Flick, the Catalan coach has been linked to several European clubs and, more recently, with the Al-Hilal of Saudi Arabia.
As reported by the journalist Florian Plettenberg of Sky Germany, Xavi is one of the candidates to replace Jorge Jesus on the Al-Hilal bench next season. The Saudi club and the Portuguese coach have agreed to terminate their contract after the elimination in the semifinals of the Asia Champions League. Currently, Mohammed al-Shalhoub has been appointed interim coach for the remainder of the season.
The interest of the Al-Hilal in Xavi is not isolated. The Saudi club wants to take another step and also tantled Raphinha, one of the great artifes of Barça's offensive explosion this season. Riad's, with Esteve Calzada at the head of operations, offered the Brazilian A four seasons contract, until 2029with a money supply of 200 million dollars, distributed at 50 million for each of the four seasons, in addition to 100 million for Barça. However, Raphinha has expressed his desire to continue in Europe at the highest level and has rejected the offer.
European options
In Europe, Xavi has been linked to several clubs. Bayer Leverkusen considers him an option to replace Xabi Alonso, in case he marks Real Madrid. Xavi's game philosophy, with an attractive and offensive football as a base, fits that of the German club. In addition, Tottenham Hotspur has it in its radar as a possible substitute for Ange Postecoglou, whose continuity is in doubt due to the irregular results of the team in the Premier League.
Xavi has stated His intention to return to the benches in the summer of 2025. In his last interview with France Football he expressed his desire to assume an exciting projecteither in a club or in a national team, with the aim of winning important titles such as the Champions League, the Eurocup or the World Cup.
Despite the criticisms he received during his time as coach of FC Barcelona, Xavi is proud to have trusted young talents such as Lamine Yamal, Fermín López, Pau Cubarsí and Alejandro Baldewho are now key pieces in the team led by Hansi Flick.
