Champions League-winning manager prefers Premier League move despite Barcelona interest | OneFootball

There is a lot of uncertainty surrounding the managerial situation at Barcelona beyond the ongoing season.

Xavi Hernandez announced his decision to step down once the season is over back in January itself. But the turnaround of form since then has convinced the club hierarchy that he is the right man for the job.

Until now, Xavi had been reluctant to change his mind, but reports over the past 24 hours or so suggest that the manager might be willing to continue as long as some of his conditions are met, which includes signing top players.

But Barça are in no position to make top signings and might not be able to meet Xavi’s conditions, leaving the situation wide open.

Names like Roberto De Zerbi, Hansi Flick, and Thomas Tuchel have been considered as possible replacements, but hurdles are expected in each scenario.

Thomas Tuchel prefers Premier League

For example, ESPN’s Rob Dawson is reporting that Thomas Tuchel, who will leave Bayern Munich at the end of the season, would prefer a return to the Premier League despite Barcelona’s interest.

Tuchel will be leaving Bayern at the end of the season. (Photo by Maja Hitij/Getty Images)

Tuchel will be out of a job this summer, with Bayern Munich having already announced his departure once the season is over.

The German tactician, who has won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea, has previously indicated that he would be open to coaching in Spain.

And, while he is not ruling out the Barcelona job, it is being claimed that Tuchel has concerns about joining the Catalans due to the lack of financial stability and how that might affect any plans to strengthen the squad.

It is a challenge that Barcelona would face with not just Tuchel but other managers as well, which is one of the reasons why efforts are being made to convince Xavi to continue.

If those fail, Barça Atletic head coach Rafa Marquez appears to be the best-placed option to replace Xavi as things stand.