Next Barcelona Manager: Joan Laporta Calls Frank Rijkaard to Return as Xavi’s Replacement

Barcelona is ready to dig deep to find their next head coach. After Xavi announced his departure from the club come summer, the Catalan side is looking for their next manager. According to reports, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has approached former head coach Frank Rijkaard to return to Camp Nou. Rijkaard served as Barcelona’s head coach from 2002 to 2008.

Meanwhile, Xavi has continued to speak out on his reasons for exiting the club. The Spaniard has slammed the supporters for their constant criticism despite providing results. However, despite everything, Xavi has not ruled out a return to the club, claiming he will always have a place for the club in his heart.

Laporta approaches Frank Rijkaard over the head coach role

According to reports from Spanish media outlet Marca, Barcelona president Joan Laporta has contacted ex-head coach Frank Rijkaard, urging him to take over the manager position after Xavi’s departure in June. Furthermore, Barcelona has approached Rijkaard’s fellow Dutchman Marco Van Basten to work as the assistant manager. While Laporta might be interested in bringing Rijkaard to Camp Nou, things will not be as effortless as they seem.

While talking to Marca, journalist David Sanchez claimed Rijkaard has no plans of returning as a manager. The Dutchman retired from the role back in 2013 after his stint with the Saudi Arabian national team. However, Laporta is unwilling to give up and believes he can convince Rijkaard to return to the club.

The Dutchman had an impressive run during his five-year stint with the club bagging the La Liga titles in 2004 and 2005. Rijkaard also led the club to European glory, helping the side bag the Champions League title in 2006. While Rijkaard has emerged as a new candidate for the role, the Blaugrana has been linked with multiple names to take over the club. However, there is no concrete front-runner at the moment.

READ MORE: Peculiar Reason Why Xavi Escapes Punishment Despite “It’s a Shame” Dig at Referees During FC Barcelona’s Loss in La Liga

Rijkaard could bring the much-needed experience to Barcelona

Apart from his time at Barcelona, the manager is known for his run with Sparta Rotterdam and Galatasaray. Apart from his club career, Rijkaard was also known for his work in the international circuit by coaching in the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia before his retirement. It will be intriguing to see if Joan Laporta can convince the Dutchman to return to Camp Nou for a second spell.

Meanwhile, current head coach Xavi has also been vocal about his frustration with the fans. The Barcelona head coach slammed fans for the lack of support while adding his work is not appreciated. Xavi will leave the side come June, bringing an end to his three-year stint with the club to an end.

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