Xavi Hernández Could Return to the Dugout. That possibility could materialize in Saudi Arabia. According to sources close to the coach's circle, Al-Hilal has placed his name at the top of the list to replace Jorge Jesús.
The Portuguese Coach's Future Is in Doubt Despite the Titles Won This Season. In Riyadh, they are looking for a profile with character, global vision, and leadership. The former Barça coach meets all those requirements.
Xavi Wants Power and a Clear Project
The Catalan, who already managed Al-Sadd in Qatar, wouldn't mind returning to coach in the region. However, he demands to have some control over the squad and sports planning. Al-Hilal would be willing to give him everything.
With that freedom, Xavi already has his first name noted. It is a footballer from Barça whom he knows perfectly and who was key during his time on Camp Nou bench. None other than Andreas Christensen.
The Dane Was One of the Pillars of His Defense in Barcelona. He trusted his ability to play the ball out, his tactical reading, and his reliability in one-on-one situations. He even gave him minutes as a pivot at specific times.
However, with Hansi Flick, his role has changed. This season he has barely had continuity. The German coach prefers other alternatives like Araujo, Cubarsí, or Iñigo Martínez.
A Logical Exit for Everyone
In this scenario, Barça is considering a summer exit. The club needs to free up salary mass and generate income to undertake other reinforcements. If a good offer comes from Arabia, they won't reject it.
Christensen, meanwhile, is also considering a change of scenery. At 29 years old, he seeks to feel important again in a competitive team. Doing so alongside Xavi is an opportunity he views favorably.
The Possible Signing of Christensen by Al-Hilal Would Not Only Lighten the Squad. It Would Also Allow Barça to Earn Close to 10 Million Euros, a Not Insignificant Amount Given the Current Circumstances.
For Xavi, It Would Mean Having a Player of Full Confidence to Lead His Defense. For Barça, a useful solution at both a sporting and financial level. For Christensen, a new stage in a context where he can stand out again.
The Club, Attentive to Every Move
In Barcelona, They Are Closely Following the Evolution of Al-Hilal's Interest. They know that if Xavi accepts the proposal, he will request reinforcements immediately. Christensen would be among the first on his list.
But the Danish center-back is not the only Barça player on the coach's agenda. Xavi Also Has Another Name Noted to Strengthen the Attack of His Possible New Team: Ansu Fati. A player he knows well, to whom he gave opportunities, and whose future is also hanging in the air.
Ansu, without minutes with Flick and without a defined role, could view favorably a destination where he can reunite with a coach who always trusted him. Barça, for their part, wouldn't put up too many obstacles. Xavi, from Arabia, could end up solving two problems of his former club with a single decision.