Ajax add Barcelona boss Xavi to their managerial shortlist for next season

According to Diario Sport journalist Toni Juanmartí, Ajax have added Barcelona boss Xavi Hernández to their list of candidates to take over as manager next season. The 44-year-old will leave the Spanish giants at the end of the season, making him available for a new role.

Last week, Ajax boss John Van ‘t Schip confirmed that he won’t continue as head coach next season, but he may take on another role at the Johan Cruyff Arena. The Amsterdam club have identified several candidates as possible successors to Van ‘t Schip, and Xavi has emerged as the latest. The Spaniard replaced Ronald Koeman as Barcelona boss in November 2021, and his since guided the Catalan club to one La Liga title and a Spanish super cup. Three defeats and seven draws this season have left Barca eight points behind Real Madrid in top spot. Xavi has come under pressure plenty of times this season, which resulted in the announcement of his resignation in January.

Ajax will be looking to reset next season after enduring a nightmare campaign plagued with dozens of different problems. They’re currently 5th in the Eredivisie table and on course for their worst league finish since the 99/00 season. The Dutch giants are out of the Europa Conference League following defeat to Aston Villa and are a laughing stock up and down the Netherlands at present.

This could be a project perfect for someone like Xavi, who aims to play attractive possession-based football. The Barca icons record with nurturing young talent could come in handy at Ajax, who are known to have one of the best academy’s in world football. However, Xavi is said to be one of many candidates on Ajax’s shortlist and there will be other clubs keen to make a move for the head coach in the summer.