The managerial search of Manchester United is gathering pace following the dismissal of Ruben Amorim, and one familiar name is now moving firmly into focus.
Xavi Hernandez has emerged as a leading candidate to take charge at Old Trafford, with the Spaniard already planning major changes if he gets the job.
INEOS sent shockwaves through football on Monday morning by ending Amorim’s spell as head coach.
Tensions that had been simmering for weeks finally spilled into the open after the 1-1 draw with Leeds United.
Amorim delivered a fiery press conference questioning his authority within the club.
Repeated references to being the “manager, not the coach” underlined his frustration, while his public demands for executives to “do their jobs” only accelerated the inevitable.
Less than 24 hours later, Manchester United confirmed his dismissal. Attention has now shifted to who comes next.
Darren Fletcher has stepped in on a temporary basis, but United are actively searching for a longer-term solution to oversee the remainder of the season.
They are looking make a permanent appointment in the summer. According to El Nacional, INEOS view Xavi Hernandez as the ideal figure to lead a long-term rebuild.
The report claims the former Barcelona boss is open to the move and has already outlined his vision for the squad.
Crucially, Xavi is said to want two Barcelona midfielders brought with him to Old Trafford. Those players are Gavi and Marc Bernal, both of whom he reportedly sees as central to his project.
Xavi has become a realistic option for Manchester United. This points to his authority, presence, and experience at the highest level.
However, questions remain about how his rigid 4-3-3 system would translate at a club still recovering from tactical instability.
For now, Xavi’s name is firmly in the frame. Whether United are ready to fully buy into his philosophy is the decision that could define their next chapter.
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