Barcelona chief makes Mikel Arteta and Jurgen Klopp admission in new manager search | OneFootball

Marc Mayo

Barcelona sporting director Deco has named Mikel Arteta and Jurgen Klopp among the “top managers” who he very would much like to bring in as his team’s new coach - but admits that trying to do so would be “pointless.”

Liverpool boss Klopp will depart Anfield this summer but has spoken of his desire to take a break from football, and possibly retire altogether from the dugout.

Meanwhile, Arsenal coach Arteta has been linked with succeeding Xavi at the LaLiga giants since the Blaugrana legend’s decision to leave at the end of the season.

However, such a move is not on the cards - as Standard Sport have reported - and Deco has revealed that Barcelona are not currently in talks with any coach over taking over from Xavi.

“Nothing has been decided yet, but we are attentive,” he told the Què T’hi Jugues podcast.

“Of course I am charmed by Luis Enrique, he is a top coach.

“Obviously you can appreciate top managers like Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp as well, but they are not available. Just like Mikel Arteta, Andoni Iraola and Sergio Conceicao, too.

“We haven’t spoken with them at all and it’s pointless to mention them. We’re not speaking to any manager yet.”

Rafael Marquez, the Blaugrana reserve team boss, former Germany manager Hansi Flick and Thomas Tuchel, who will soon depart Bayern Munich, are also touted for the role and will all be available this summer.