Following the news that Xavi is set to leave Barcelona at the end of the season, Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta has been heavily linked with a move to the Catalan club.
Xavi Set To Leave Barcelona
Barcelona legend Xavi announced on Sunday that he is set to step down from his role as head coach at the end of the season, suggesting that the job has worn him down.
Speaking to the media following his side’s 5-3 loss to Villareal, Xavi said: “I want to announce that on June 30 I will no longer continue as the coach at Barca,” Xavi said.
“I think the situation needs to change course, and as a culer [Barcelona fan], I cannot allow the current situation.
“As a cul, as a club person, I believe the best thing is to leave on June 30. Of course, I will give all I have in the four months that are left.
“To explain a bit better, the feeling of being Barca coach is unpleasant, it’s cruel. You feel that often there is a lack of respect, you feel they do not value your work, and this wears you down terribly.”
"It's totally untrue. I'm really upset about it" ❌
Mikel Arteta on reports in Spain that he will leave Arsenal at the end of the season 💬 pic.twitter.com/9MXpdccf4H
— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) January 29, 2024
Could Arteta Replace Xavi At Barcelona?
Following Xavi’s announcement, Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta has been heavily linked with replacing the legendary midfielder.
Arteta came through the ranks at Barcelona’s La Masia and even played alongside Xavi at the club. However, Arteta has strenuously denied reports suggesting he will join Barcelona at the end of the season.
Speaking to the media ahead of his side’s Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest, Arteta said: “No, that’s totally fake news. What was written yesterday, I don’t know where it’s coming from and it’s totally untrue.
“I’m really upset about it. I could not believe it. I don’t know where it ‘s coming from and it has no source. It’s got nothing.
“I think we have to be very cautious when you talk about personal things, to put it in the way that it was put yesterday.
“I’m in the right place, I’m with the right people, I feel really good about it.
“As I said many times, I’m immersed in a beautiful journey with this football club with these players, the staff, our people, and there is still a lot to do.”
Who do you think will replace Xavi at Barcelona?
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