Manchester United have resumed their search for a new head coach following Ruben Amorim’s sacking, and Xavi, currently a free agent, has once again emerged as a potential candidate.
The Spaniard has been unattached since leaving Barcelona in 2024 and has openly shared his desire to coach in England.
United announced Amorim’s dismissal on Monday, shortly after a disappointing 1-1 draw at Leeds.
- Solskjaer close to Man Utd return after backing from key players
- Enzo Maresca finally breaks silence on Chelsea exit as club appoint Liam Rosenior
However, it was his comments after the match, where he took aim at certain board members for neglecting their duties that may have sealed his fate.
Xavi, now 45, has a prior working relationship with United CEO Omar Berrada, dating back to their shared time at Camp Nou before Berrada’s exit in 2011.
The two could now reunite in England, where Xavi has shown interest in taking on a managerial role.
“Of course? Where, I don’t know,” he told The Athletic last year when asked about his coaching ambitions. “There’s no hurry for me, but I’d like a good project.
“Like, ‘You have four years to work and make a project.’ I’d love to work in the Premier League, because I love the passion there.
“In Spain, it’s too much about the result. Or a national team, that would appeal. When I dreamed about being a coach, I dreamed about being in a World Cup or European Championship.”
Although United’s leadership may have grown frustrated with Amorim’s rigid tactical approach, they remained focused on a long-term strategy something that aligns well with Xavi’s coaching philosophy.
Amorim did guide the team to a Europa League final last season, but failed to win any major trophies and oversaw the club’s worst Premier League finish, ending in 15th place.
Some might argue his departure was overdue, and other clubs might have acted sooner.
Reports also suggest internal tensions, with figures like Christopher Vivell and Jason Wilcox reportedly unhappy with his methods.
Rebuilding the squad and style of play may take time, especially if the next manager opts to move away from Amorim’s system and return to a traditional back four.
In that sense, Xavi could be an ideal fit, as he prefers a four-man defence that can adapt into a three when needed.
Xavi was previously in the frame for the Old Trafford job when Erik ten Hag was dismissed in October 2024. At that time, Berrada reportedly led a group of four club officials to Barcelona to meet Xavi in person.
Now, just over a year later, United are in a familiar position, and Berrada may be ready to revisit those discussions. If Xavi still dreams of managing in England, he knows the door at United might be open once again.
