The truth about Man United's interest in Xavi Hernandez

The rumours that Manchester United have begun negotiations with Xavi Hernandez to replace Ruben Amorim have been debunked, with fresh reports stating that while the Red Devils have an interest in the former Barcelona coach, they have yet to submit an offer.

The Red Devils’ coaching situation has been thrown into flux after the club sacked Ruben Amorim on January 5th, ending his 14-month reign amid inconsistent results and rising tensions with the hierarchy.

Interim duties have been handed to Darren Fletcher, with United’s board launching a search for a permanent successor as they aim to steady the club after another high-profile dismissal.

Early contenders include Enzo Maresca (recently at Chelsea), Oliver Glasner, Gareth Southgate, Michael Carrick, and Thomas Tuchel.

Among the heavy names floated in the media was Xavi Hernández, currently without a coaching job since being sacked by Barcelona in May 2024 after two and a half seasons in charge, during which he won La Liga (2022/23) and the Supercopa de España (2023) before parting ways amid a downturn in results. 

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed to Sport that no negotiations are underway between United and Xavi at the moment, despite persistent speculation in the press linking him with the vacancy and acknowledging that Xavi is “ready and very open to managing in the Premier League.” 

Xavi’s name remains on early candidate lists (he has also been reported to have expressed interest in a Premier League role), but as of now, Manchester United have not formally approached him, and talks have not entered any advanced or concrete stage.