Former Barcelona manager Xavi has allegedly requested that Manchester United acquire two of his former players from Camp Nou as a prerequisite for considering the position vacated by Ruben Amorim.
Speculation has arisen regarding Amorim’s precarious situation amid United’s ongoing difficulties. Since taking over from Erik ten Hag in November of the previous year, the situation has not improved, leading to suggestions that INEOS may contemplate a managerial change during the summer.
Under Amorim’s leadership, the team has secured only five victories out of 16 Premier League matches, leaving the Red Devils in a disappointing 14th place with just 33 points from a possible 81.
Recently, Xavi’s name has emerged as a potential candidate. Previous reports from The Peoples Person indicated that he had turned down United on at least two occasions in recent months; however, he now appears interested in the role as he aims to return to management for the upcoming season.
A report from Spain, as cited by Football365, suggests that Xavi could indeed take over from Amorim if Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS decide to part ways with the Portuguese coach.
The report highlights that “the prospect of joining the English club is highly appealing to him, prompting him to reinitiate discussions with Jim Ratcliffe and present his initial requests.”
Xavi is said to be seeking the acquisition of two former players, beginning with Frenkie de Jong, who was already on United’s radar prior to Xavi’s request and had also been a target for Ten Hag.
Additionally, Xavi’s other request from Barcelona is for Ronald Araujo, another player with whom United has been frequently associated in the past.
It is noted that Xavi and Araujo had grown “distant” towards the conclusion of his tenure at Barcelona; however, this has not deterred him from urging United to pursue the Uruguayan.
Despite these developments, it remains clear that United is still strategizing for the summer transfer window with the expectation that Amorim will continue in his role.
The management is certainly eager to construct the team in alignment with his vision by acquiring players who fit his desired style of play and football philosophy.
It is also improbable that United would pursue De Jong and Araujo again, given their previous unsuccessful attempts. Both players have publicly declined potential transfers to United, repeatedly expressing their desire to remain with the Blaugrana.
Consequently, this report from Spain should be approached with skepticism until it is corroborated by more credible sources.
In the meantime, United will return to the pitch on Thursday to compete against Real Sociedad in the round of 16 of the Europa League, with the match scheduled to commence at 17:45 GMT.