Xavi set to renew Barcelona contract despite UCL failures

Xavi Hernandez has reportedly reached an agreement with Barcelona to extend his contract until 2026. 

The former midfielder assumed the role in November 2021 following the sacking of another former Barcelona player-turned manager Ronald Koeman. 

He led the club to a second-place finish that season, and in his first full season, the 2022/23 campaign, he steered the club to their first league title in three seasons.  

Although the Blaugrana have enjoyed domestic success under Xavi, his European record leaves a lot to be desired.  

He has been eliminated from the Champions League group stage twice as a Barcelona coach and has failed to win the subsequent Europa League on both occasions.  

His failure on the European stage has not seemed to fluster his bosses at the club, as according to a report by Marca, he has agreed on a renewal offer to extend his contract, previously set to expire next summer, until 2026. 

The agreement is said to remain only formalities, with both parties on the same page in principle.  

The negotiations for a new deal began months ago, as confirmed by Laporta. The new deal, according to the report, improves Xavi's salary as well and caters for his backroom staff.