Manchester United have reportedly held talks with former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez as a potential replacement for Erik ten Hag.
According to recent reports, contact has been made with Xavi’s representatives twice in recent months.
The discussions come amid growing pressure on Ten Hag following United’s poor start to the season. The club currently sits 12th in the Premier League table.
A four-man team led by United’s chief executive Omar Berrada is said to have flown to Barcelona last Thursday for face-to-face meetings.
However, club sources have downplayed the significance of these talks.
United sources have emphasised that numerous high-level meetings have taken place in Barcelona due to co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s presence there.
Erik ten Hag is still under pressure at Man Utd
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Ratcliffe has been supporting the Ineos Britannia sailing team in their America’s Cup challenge against New Zealand.
Despite these clarifications, speculation about Xavi as a potential successor to Ten Hag has intensified.
The Spaniard has been out of work since leaving Barcelona in the summer, where he led the club to a league and cup double last season.
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Xavi’s availability and his reputation as a coach influenced by Pep Guardiola could appeal to United’s hierarchy.
United’s preference is reportedly to stand by Ten Hag, who is preparing his team for a Europa League clash against Fenerbahce on Thursday.
The Dutch manager oversaw a 2-1 comeback victory against Brentford on Saturday, which eased some of the pressure.
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However, this was only United’s fourth win in 12 matches this season.
Despite the recent win, Ten Hag remains under severe pressure to improve results after what has been described as a dismal start to the season.
While Xavi is being considered, other potential candidates have been mentioned if United decide to replace Ten Hag.
Thomas Tuchel was seen as a likely option, but he has recently been appointed as England manager.
Xavi has been spoken to by Man Utd chiefs, reports say
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Sporting Lisbon coach Ruben Amorim and former Borussia Dortmund boss Edin Terzic are also reportedly in contention.
However, Amorim is widely tipped to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City in the future.
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Erik ten Hag is battling for his job at Man Utd
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United had considered a managerial change in the summer but felt there was a lack of quality coaches available at the time.
Xavi’s current availability could make him an attractive option for the club’s hierarchy.