Xavi extends Al-Sadd stay until 2020-21 season amid Barcelona rumours

Defending LaLiga champions Barcelona’s poor run of form and the ensuing conflict between the first-team players led by Lionel Messi and manager Quique Setien appears far from reaching a conclusion even as Barcelona picked up a much-needed win in their last game. Although it was earlier claimed that the six-time Ballon d’Or winner had demanded the appointment of club legend Xavi in place of Setien earlier this year, it now appears that the former midfield maestro has a long way before he returns to Camp Nou as he extended his contract with Al-Sadd this week.

Also Read | Xavi Hernandez preparing for Barcelona return as a coach amid Quique Setien exit talk

Xavi extends Al-Sadd contract 

Qatar club Al-Sadd have come to an agreement to extend manager Xavi’s contract for the 2020-21 season. Xavi took charge of the club after his retirement last year and his side stay put in third on the league table before the restart of the 2019-20 season. The season is under suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In an official statement, Xavi confirmed that he had extended his contract with the club. He asserted his happiness in extending his stay for another season while confirming his objective of winning several titles. The main focus is to equip the players for the upcoming domestic and Asian competitions, said the former Barcelona midfielder.

Also Read | Griezmann's father, brother slam Barcelona manager Setien for 2-minute display vs Atletico

Lionel Messi exit talks gain momentum 

Barcelona suffered multiple setbacks since the LaLiga restart, dropping points on three occasions, paving the way for Real Madrid to claim the top spot in the competition. There were clouds of uncertainty over Setien’s future at the club after the Catalan giants were forced to share points against Celta Vigo and Atletico Madrid consecutively.

Reports of frequent arguments between the manager and the first team, as well as a lack of trust in Setien’s tactics, reignited rumours that he could soon be sacked. Messi reportedly demanded the appointment of Xavi at Camp Nou, although the Spanish legend feels it too early to take charge at Barcelona. Meanwhile, reports of the Lionel Messi exit have also gained momentum. 

Also Read | Is Lionel Messi leaving Barcelona? Problems with Barcelona manager Setien fuel exit rumours

Xavi offered Barcelona manager role in January

Xavi spoke to former Barcelona teammate Samuel Eto’o on the newly launched Instagram account of FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 after the appointment of Setien in January. He revealed that he had conversations with Barcelona’s sporting director Eric Abidal and Oscar Grau, who offered him a big contract. However, he felt it was not the right time to return to Camp Nou, but he does see himself on the touchline in the future.

Also Read | Barcelona manager admits difficult to play Griezmann without destabilising team post Atleti draw\

Image courtesy: Al-Sadd Twitter handle