Former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has revealed he rejected two approaches from Manchester United during his playing career, including one made through Sir Alex Ferguson's brother. The 44-year-old, who left Barcelona this summer, was reportedly contacted by United about succeeding Erik ten Hag, but club sources have denied formal talks.
Xavi told The Times in 2021 that United first approached him via Martin Ferguson, Sir Alex's brother and the club's chief European scout. 'Manchester United approached me once through Sir Alex Ferguson's brother, but my answer was very quick,' Xavi said. 'I was focused on Barca, my priority was only Barca.'
The midfielder, a cornerstone of Barcelona's success under Pep Guardiola, also turned down a second approach in 2007. United instead signed Owen Hargreaves and went on to win the Champions League that season. Xavi later became Barcelona's all-time appearance holder and returned as manager in 2021, winning La Liga in 2023.
Now out of work, Xavi has not ruled out managing in England. 'Everyone tells me that the Premier League is wonderful,' he said. 'So why not? I could see myself managing in England, definitely.'
United's current manager Erik ten Hag signed a contract extension in the summer after winning the FA Cup, but a poor start to the season has intensified scrutiny on his position. The Daily Mail reported that United had twice contacted Xavi about replacing Ten Hag, though club sources said chief executive Omar Berrada was in Barcelona for meetings with Sir Jim Ratcliffe regarding the America's Cup.
