Xavi has admitted he would like to manage Chelsea, giving the Blues a significant boost as they search for a permanent head coach following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior last month. The Barcelona legend, who has been out of work since leaving the Catalan giants in 2024, previously expressed his desire to take charge at Stamford Bridge.
Xavi's Previous Comments on Premier League Ambitions
Speaking in 2019, before his appointment as Barcelona head coach, the 46-year-old said: "I don't hide it, my goal is to return to Europe and return to Barca, it is my challenge ahead, but I'm still learning in this project and I'm also enjoying it. My idea, which also happened to me as a footballer, is to be in Barcelona. Training this type of team would be a privilege and the greatest privilege for me would be to return to Barca."
He added: "That is my goal, but obviously, who doesn't like the Premier League? The football atmosphere, the packed stadiums and the people who play in the Premier League say it's extraordinary. Obviously if I had to choose, I would choose a big team, [Manchester] City or United, Chelsea, Arsenal or Tottenham. Also, [Jurgen] Klopp and [Mauricio] Pochettino and Unai Emery, many people who have gone there are doing an extraordinary job."
Chelsea's Managerial Search
Chelsea are on the lookout for a new permanent head coach after sacking Liam Rosenior last month due to a dip in form, just three months into a staggering six-and-a-half-year deal. While Calum McFarlane has been named interim head coach until the end of the season, the club are seeking a permanent appointment ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
Several world-class names have been linked with the vacancy, including Xabi Alonso, who has been out of work since leaving Real Madrid in January, and Andoni Iraola, who will depart Bournemouth later this month. Cesc Fabregas has also been tipped for a return to the Premier League after an impressive tenure with Como, as has Frank Lampard, who has just guided Coventry to a Championship title and promotion to the Premier League.
Competition for Xavi
However, Chelsea face stiff competition for Xavi's signature. The Moroccan national team reportedly view him as an ideal successor to Walid Regragui, while Manchester United have also been linked with the former midfielder as they consider options beyond Michael Carrick.
Xabi Alonso remains the bookmakers' favourite to become Chelsea's next manager, though the Spaniard would reportedly demand "a bit more control" of the club should he move to the capital.
Xavi ultimately returned to Barcelona as head coach in 2021, guiding them to a La Liga title and a Supercopa de Espana before being replaced by Hansi Flick in 2024. He has been out of work ever since.
