Barcelona’s sporting director Deco has already set out to find Xavi’s replacement on the bench after the coach publicly announced that he will leave after June 30.
One of the names he is strongly considering is Roberto De Zerbi, the Italian who has impressed during his 18-month stint with Brighton.
De Zerbi is very much appreciated by senior officials at Camp Nou and has the profile of the next manager they want to lead the first team.
Barca’s sporting director wants a coach who already has experience in Europe and combines youth, energy and winning mentality. Certainly, De Zerbi fits this profile.
De Zerbi’s catches the eye in the Premier League
The Italian is having an excellent season in the Premier League and his team are currently seventh in the league table, as well as qualifying for the Europa League knockout stages.
De Zerbi is under contract with his current club until 2026 and Brighton are keen on renewing his deal for another year, in addition to raising his compensation clause to 20 million, which would double the current amount.
Despite this, Barcelona are clear in identifying him as one of the best options for the bench, although he is not the only one. Arsenal coach Mikel Arteta is highly rated, although it is accepted that it would not be easy to convince him to leave.
Arteta represents the clear Barça style as he was mentored as an assistant for Pep Guardiola and it is clear that he knows perfectly well what the ‘Barça DNA’ is.
The Rafa Marquez option
In case neither one of De Zerbi or Arteta agree to take the job, Barca B coach Rafa Marquez, who has already stated that he would be delighted if given the opportunity, could replace Xavi.
Directors have no doubts about this and would not look to bring in a coach from outside the club to finish the season if Xavi leaves before June 30.
If the Mexican were to sit on the bench, it would be necessary to see how the team performs during his tenure. If he does well, he could extend his stay longer, although their priority is to bring in an outside coach that fits their profile.