Xavi Hernandez set to be appointed Barcelona head coach as Al Sadd issues a statement

By Lola Smith

Published: November 6, 2021 | 1:37 PM GMT

Following Ronald Koeman’s dismissal, Xavier Hernandez has returned to Barcelona as the club’s next permanent head coach.

Following Barca’s 1-0 loss to Rayo Vallecano on October 27, Koeman’s 14-month reign came to an end after the Dutch strategist failed to persuade the Camp Nou board of his long-term importance to the cause.

Barca have now turned to another club legend, with World Cup winner Xavi completing an emotional homecoming as he takes the reins from interim boss Sergi Barjuan.

Al Sadd said in an official club statement: “Club administration have approved the transfer of Xavi to Barcelona after the payment of the value of the penalty clause stipulated in his contract.

“Xavi is considered an important part of our history and we wish him every success in the future.

” Xavi is one of the most decorated players in Barca’s history, having won 25 trophies at Camp Nou between 1997 and 2015, including eight La Liga titles and the Champions League.

The Spaniard made 767 appearances for the club, a record bettered only by Lionel Messi, and also contributed 85 goals and 185 assists.

Xavi left Barca for Al Sadd in 2015 and retired four years later before becoming the Qatar-based club’s permanent manager, and delivered the league title in his second season at the helm.

About Lola Smith

Lola Smith is a highly experienced writer and journalist with over 25 years of experience in the field. Her special interest lies in journalistic writeups, where she can utilize her skills and knowledge to bring important stories to the public eye. Lola’s dedication to her craft is unparalleled, and she writes with passion and precision, ensuring that her articles are informative, engaging, and thought-provoking. She lives in New York, USA.