Xavi responds to rumors he will replace Valverde at Barca

Photo by Marcio Machado/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images

The midfielder is focused on Al Sadd for now

Xavi has given his response to rumors he is set to replace Ernesto Valverde as manager of Barcelona.

Al Sadd confirmed on Saturday that Barcelona are in negotiations with Xavi over a move, but the club legend gave little away when asked about the speculation.

Xavi: Coaching Barça is my dream, I cannot hide that. Everyone knows. But my focus is on Al-Sadd. I do not say anything (else). I want to have respect for Valverde.

— Samuel Marsden (@samuelmarsden) January 11, 2020

Xavi: I cannot say anything, I am focused on Al Sadd. (Barça) were here to talk to me, also to check on Ousmane Dembele. That's it. I cannot say. Sorry. I cannot inform you too much. Just that I met with Abidal, my friend ... I am focused on my team, Al Sadd.

— Samuel Marsden (@samuelmarsden) January 11, 2020

Xavi spoke after guiding Al Sadd to a 4-1 win over Al Rayyan in the Qatar Cup that puts them into the final.

Meanwhile, there seems no end to the speculation over his future and a possible return to the Camp Nou.

Mundo Deportivo are reporting he will meet Eric Abidal and Oscar Grau again on Saturday night, while Marca claim Barcelona will get a decision by Xavi on Sunday,

Source: barcablaugranes.com