‘Fully focused’ – Barcelona sent strong Al Sadd message amid Xavi talks

Qatari outfit Al Sadd have sent Barcelona a defiant message over the availability of their boss Xavi.

The Catalan giants are manager-less after Ronald Koeman’s sacking on Wednesday. His departure was a direct result of the club’s poor start to the season – they are ninth in La Liga following recent defeats to Real Madrid and Rayo Vallecano.

Barcelona are also falling behind in their Champions League group. They have suffered 3-0 losses to both Bayern Munich and Benfica this campaign. Only Dynamo Kiev are keeping them from the bottom of Group E.

Club president Joan Laporta is busy searching for a new coach to take over. Roberto Martinez and Erik ten Hag are under consideration.

But the early frontrunner is club legend Xavi. The 41-year-old won four Champions Leagues and eight La Liga titles during a glittering career at the Camp Nou.

Laporta confirmed on Friday that talks had been held with the former midfielder. But Al Sadd have been quick to remind Barcelona that he is their coach.

A Twitter statement read: “In response to what’s circulating recently, the Al Sadd management reaffirms that Xavi has a two-year contract with the club and is fully focused on the team’s upcoming matches, to maintain our lead at the top of the league and to defend the title.”

Ronald Koeman sacking might harm Man United

With Barcelona facing the situation and sacking Koeman after a poor spell in charge, it may end up being a bad thing for the Red Devils.

It looks like Barca will have to put in some hard work to prize Xavi away from Qatar. That will include paying Al Sadd significant compensation for buying him out of his contract.

Xavi joined Al Sadd in 2015 after signalling his intention to leave Catalonia. He arrived as a player but was appointed manager four years later.

He has received praise for his attractive style of play in the Qatar Stars League. However, it remains to be seen whether that will be enough to bring success back to Barca, should he return to the club.

Bielsa, Smith and six other Premier League managers under pressure to deliver results

Mikel Arteta reacts to Barcelona turmoil

Meanwhile, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has given his verdict on the troubles surrounding Barca.

He said at Friday’s press conference: “There has been a lot going on in the last few years. And obviously with how Covid has affected things.

“Obviously you have to overcome a situation like the departure of Messi. He has been the key player for many many years and all that takes time and we’ll see.

“I just hope that everything works out well.”

Barca’s interim boss is former full-back Sergi Barjuan. He has taken charge ahead of their league clash against Alaves.

READ MORE: Leicester officials delighted as Euro giant ‘drops out of race’ for key player