Speculations rife as Barcelona reportedly wants to replace current manager Ernesto Valverde with former player Xavi as the new head coach, Marca reports.
Barca CEO Oscar Grau and technical secretary Eric Abidal have a scheduled a meeting with Xavi and travelled to Doha since he is currently Al-Sadd manager.
During the meeting, it was reported they have offered a managerial position to Xavi.
The original plan was to offer Xavi a two-year contract starting next season, but a surprising exit from Supercopa Espana has prompted an immediate response from Barca management.
Meanwhile, the club are trying to assure fans that they had no intention of sacking Valverde now and he will remain as manager.
Al-Sadd warned Barcelona to back off from approaching their manager.
“The issue of Xavi going to Barcelona is normal and expected because he will be at his club and it’s his first home and he must return there in the future, but as of today, Xavi is the coach of Al Sadd,” general manager Turki Al-Ali said on the club’s official website.
“Xavi and his team are focusing on tomorrow’s match against Al-Rayyan, and we know that a club with the size and professionalism of Barcelona will take to official channels to speak of such matters.”
Barcelona currently lead La Liga with 40 points, only goal difference separate them with Real Madrid.