Key Takeaways:
- Xavi has turned down multiple offers since leaving Barcelona in 2024, most recently rejecting Spartak Moscow’s approach
- The ex-Barcelona manager’s refusal stemmed from doubts over project direction, with Spartak Moscow struggling in the 2025-26 Russian Premier League
- Xavi remains patient and selective, seeking a position that aligns with his footballing philosophy and long-term vision
Xavi Opts for Patience as Clubs Approach
Since his departure from FC Barcelona in 2024, Xavi Hernandez has chosen to carefully evaluate his options in management rather than return hastily to the touchline. Despite increasing interest from notable clubs, including Manchester United, Ajax, Al Ittihad, and most recently Spartak Moscow, the Spanish icon continues to bide his time in search of an opportunity that perfectly fits his footballing beliefs and ambitions.
The latest club to court Xavi was Spartak Moscow. The Russian Premier League side, intent on launching a new era under sporting director Francis Cagigao, identified Xavi as an ideal leader for their project. Nevertheless, the 45-year-old former Barcelona head coach remained unconvinced by the club’s vision and direction. As reported by Sport, he opted against pursuing the Spartak role, preferring to avoid a situation lacking strategic clarity and high pressure without a supporting long-term framework.
Spartak Moskwa nawiązał kontakt z Xavim Hernándezem w kontekście zostania ich nowym trenerem, ale 🇪🇸 odrzucił ich zapytanie. [@sport]
— BarcaInfo (@_BarcaInfo) October 30, 2025
Spartak Moscow’s Difficult Start and Coaching Uncertainty
Spartak Moscow’s overture to Xavi arrives amid a turbulent period on the pitch. Under current manager Dejan Stankovic, Spartak have struggled at the outset of the 2025-26 Russian Premier League campaign, earning just four points from their first four matches. These unsatisfactory results have cast doubt over Stankovic’s future, and reports indicate the board are considering a change in leadership. With Xavi having declined their offer, the club is now reportedly considering Spanish coach Luis Garcia as a possible successor.
| Team | Manager | Points (First 4 Rounds) | Current Situation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spartak Moscow | Dejan Stankovic | 4 | Under pressure, possible coaching change |
Offers from Al-Ittihad and India Reflect Global Demand
Xavi’s approach sharply contrasts with that of managers keen for a swift return to the profession. Financial security and fidelity to his principles have enabled the Spaniard to decline lucrative offers. Following Laurent Blanc’s departure from Al-Ittihad in September, the Saudi club reportedly approached Xavi, but he rejected the proposal in favour of holding out for a project focused on control, positional play, and sustainable development. “The priority is the right footballing project, not money,” a source close to Xavi told media, emphasising his long-term priorities.
Additionally, Xavi’s name even surfaced in connection with the All India Football Federation (AIFF) as the Indian national team searched for a new coach. Ultimately, the AIFF decided not to pursue the appointment, with reports attributing their decision to budgetary constraints. This episode highlighted the breadth of Xavi’s appeal in the managerial market and his openness to roles beyond Europe, provided they meet his strict requirements for vision and structure.
Xavi’s Legacy and Future Prospects
The 2022–23 La Liga winner has made it clear that his next step in management must allow him to construct a team identity over time, steering away from short-lived fixes or chaotic environments. Xavi continues to collaborate with his technical staff, conducting regular meetings, analysing tactical systems, and evaluating clubs or nations that might match his ideals.
As the managerial climate remains fluid across Europe and beyond, Xavi is expected to remain in demand, particularly as further changes arise in the winter. For now, though, he remains at home with his family, taking time to recharge and refine his personal processes until the right project emerges.
