Xavi offered return to managerial role in Saudi Arabia but picks EPL side Man United

The Spanish legend has been without a club since he was sacked from Barcelona in May 2024, following a disappointing campaign. 

Xavi guided the Catalan giants to La Liga and Spanish Super Cup titles in 2023 before being replaced by German coach Hansi Flick.

According to football journalist Fabrizio Romano, as reported by the Sun, Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad has approached the legendary midfielder. 

The Jeddah-based club is searching for a new manager after parting ways with Laurent Blanc just four games into the new season, despite winning three of those matches and sitting third in the table.

Xavi is not the only candidate on Al-Ittihad's shortlist, with Luciano Spalletti and Sergio Conceicao also reportedly in contention for the position.

However, Romano suggests that Xavi's ambitions lie in the Premier League. The report claims the former midfielder would "jump at the chance" to take over at Manchester United, even with the club currently out of European competition.

The transfer expert also noted that Xavi is actively "studying" the English top flight in preparation for a potential move. 

The current manager at Old Trafford, Ruben Amorim, is under increasing pressure following a poor start to the season. 

His side's 3-1 defeat to Brentford on Saturday left them 14th in the Premier League table, just three points clear of the relegation zone.