ANDRES INIESTA has revealed he would be open to managing Barcelona alongside Xavi in the future.
With Xavi currently pursing a coaching career and Iniesta at the end of his playing career, the dynamic duo are said to be in the pipeline for co-managing Barcelona in the future.
Andres Iniesta has announced he is open to co-managing Barcelona with fellow legend Xavi.Credit: AP:Associated Press
Iniesta and Xavi spent more than a decade together in Barcelona’s midfield during the clubs most successful period in history.Credit: Times Newspapers Ltd
In an interview with Cadena Cope and Radio MARCA, Iniesta said: “The Xavi-Iniesta tandem doesn’t sound bad, but it’s not possible right now.
“I haven’t said that I would like to work with a specific team, but as time passes I like the idea of becoming a coach”.
Iniesta and Xavi spent more than a decade together in Barcelona’s midfield during the clubs most successful period in history.
After twenty-two years of service for Barcelona, Iniesta picked up a wealth of silverware including nine LaLiga titles and four Champions League titles.
Whilst Xavi won eight league titles, three Champions Leagues, two UEFA Super Cups, three Copa del Reys, six Spanish Supercups, and two FIFA Club World Cups.
Their bond transgressed onto the international stage, representing Spain in the World Cup and two European Championships.
Xavi, who took his first coaching role at Al-Sadd after retiring from the Qatari club last year, was approached by Barcelona to take over from the recently sacked Ernesto Valverde.
Xavi chose to turn down the role, telling reporters he did not feel ready to take the reins at his former club.
“Yes, I received an offer from Barcelona in a meeting with Eric Abidal and Òscar Grau but I did not accept it, especially because it is too early to train Barcelona but it will remain my dream in the future to be a Barça Coach.”
Iniesta commented on his partners decision to turn the role down, saying: “I would like Xavi to be the coach at any time, but another thing is what he feels and visualises for himself.”
He went on to say: “I think sooner or later Xavi will be back at Barcelona.”
Quique Setien was next in line for Barcelona, being offered the job shortly after Xavi’s rejection.
The former Real Betis coach said he is “excited about this challenge and this project” and never in his “wildest dreams” did he see himself landing the role.
Xavi was quick to get behind Barcelona’s decision to instate Setien, saying: “I love Barcelona’s new Coach, I love his way of working and I hope he succeeds with the team.”
Quique Setien was offered the job after Xavi turned it down.Credit: Reuters
Quique Setien says he went from ‘strolling next to cows’ to Barcelona coach in 24 hours
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
