Barcelona has reached out to Roberto Martinez regarding the potential of stepping into the shoes of Xavi as the head coach for the upcoming 2024/25 season, as revealed exclusively by FootballTransfers.
Xavi has disclosed his decision to step down from his current position at the conclusion of the ongoing campaign, marking the end of his three-year tenure. As he prepares to depart, speculation swirls regarding his successor, with contenders such as Hansi Flick, Rafa Marquez, and Roberto De Zerbi in the mix. While there was fleeting talk of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta as a potential candidate, such rumors were swiftly dispelled.
FootballTransfers can verify that Barcelona has initiated discussions with Martinez about the prospect of assuming the role at Camp Nou. The initial offer entails a one-year contract with the option for an extension, with Barcelona presenting Martinez with the opportunity to balance this role alongside his current position as Portugal’s head coach.
Martinez, aged 50, has held his current role since January 2023, following a successful six-year stint leading Belgium to the top spot in the FIFA Ranking. His departure from Belgium came after the 2022 World Cup, where his team was eliminated in the group stage. Prior to his international endeavors, Martinez tasted success at the club level with Swansea, Wigan Athletic, and Everton, notably clinching the 2012/13 FA Cup with Wigan.
Within the Barcelona circles, Martinez is highly regarded, with previous attempts made to secure his services, notably in autumn 2021 before Xavi was appointed following the dismissal of Ronald Koeman. President Joan Laporta holds Martinez in high esteem, drawn not only to his coaching prowess but also to his personal connections to the Cruyff family. Martinez, who shares a close relationship with the Cruyffs, was on the brink of securing the Barcelona role previously, only to encounter a late complication that derailed the opportunity.
Given Martinez’s recent appointment as the head coach of Portugal in January 2023, his response to Barcelona’s approach remains uncertain at this juncture.