While Xavi Hernández does not want to reverse his decision to leave FC Barcelona at the end of the season, the Catalans must remain ready to replace him this summer.
To this end, many candidates have been linked to a decision, ranging from current Bayern Munich boss Thomas Tuchel to Rafa Marquez, the head coach of Barça Atletic.
Another name that has been circulating as a possible option to replace Xavi is that of Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim.
The Portuguese tactician seems to be in demand because, apart from Barcelona, Liverpool are also interested in hiring him to replace Jurgen Klopp, while Bayern Munich are also interested.
Barcelona out of the race
But now, according to the journalist Pedro SepúlvedaBarcelona are out of the running to sign Ruben Amorim as manager this summer.
This is mainly because the Blaugrana are unable to pay the amount of his release clause to Sporting CP, which amounts to 15 million euros.
Amorim, 39, has done an excellent job since joining Sporting in 2020, even leading them to the Portuguese league title in 2020/21, as well as several other honours.
The Portuguese manager’s contract runs until 2026 and provides for the aforementioned €15 million buyout, which Barca will not consider paying, which is understandable given their financial situation.
It is also worth noting that Barcelona sporting director Deco had previously ruled out Amorim as a candidate due to his lack of experience.
As such, Liverpool now appear to be favorites to hire Amorim as manager at the end of the season.
And Barcelona?
As for Barcelona, their main focus remains trying to convince Xavi to continue as coach beyond this season.
But if the 44-year-old doesn’t agree, Barça Atletic’s Rafa Marquez has emerged as a contender following his team’s strong performance in the Spanish third division this season.
Names like Thomas Tuchel, Roberto De Zerbi, Hansi Flick and Julian Nagelsmann are also being considered, but are not generating full consensus.
Most recently, the Spanish manager of AFC Bournemouth Andoni Iraola also emerged as an option.