Frank Rijkaard: Barcelona Reportedly Reach Out to Former Manager to Replace Xavi

• Barca are shopping for a new manager to replace Xavi at the end of the season
• Xavi made public his intention to step down after his side's defeat to Villarreal
• A number of top names have been floated for the role, including that of De Zerbi

Barcelona have reportedly reached out to former manager Frank Rijkaard to replace Xavi in the dugout.

The La Liga giants are shopping for a new manager after Xavi announced he would be departing at the end of the season.

The legendary midfielder dropped the bombshell last week following his side's 5-3 humiliating defeat against Villarreal.

According to the Spaniard, he felt they had reached a point of no return and believed it was time for him to quit.

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Who could replace Xavi?

SPORTbible reports that Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is among the managers who have been touted as favourites to take charge at Camp Nou.

Brighton's Roberto De Zerbi is the other one whose name has been floated, with Marca claiming the Italian is strongly being considered by sporting director Deco.

While Barcelona's B coach Rafa Marquez has been mooted for the role, the most surprising name on the list is that of Rijkaard.

Rijkaard, who spent five years as Barca boss, has been linked with a stunning return, with reports claiming the Catalan giants could consider him.

The tactician won three major titles at Camp Nou, including two La Liga titles.

The 61-year-old has been out of job for more than 10 years, with his last assignment coming in 2013 as Saudi Arabia's national team head coach.

Messi backed to replace Xavi

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Earlier, Sports Brief reported on English pundit Danny Murphy steering away from the popular choices that can replace Xavi at Barca, making a somewhat unpopular pick for the next manager.

According to him, Inter Miami ace Lionel Messi is best suited for the role.

Messi previously stated he would not become a coach once he retired. Instead, he wants to be a director and hopes to return to Barcelona someday.

The Argentine spent over 20 years at Barcelona before departing in 2021.