BREAKING NEWS: coming from Fabrizio Romano, it is official 🚨 Jose Mourinho has been chosen as the man to replace Xavi as head coach of barcelona during the summer. Barcelona president LaPorta has identified the Portuguese coach as the right man for the job he said “We’re looking for a manager who can adapt to the club’s situation and that can keep developing the young players we have.”

After Xavi announced his departure from Barcelona at the end of the season, various notable figures have been associated with the managerial position at Camp Nou, including the recently ousted Jose Mourinho. Deco, Barcelona’s sporting director and a former protege of Mourinho, has addressed these speculations, emphasizing their positive relationship. The 2023-24 season has been disappointing for Barcelona, with exits from the Copa Del Rey and the Spanish Supercup, coupled with struggles in La Liga, prompting Xavi’s decision to step down and seek a positive transformation for his beloved club.

Following Xavi’s surprising announcement, several managerial candidates emerged as potential successors. Jose Mourinho, aged 61 and recently unemployed after his stint at Roma, stands out as a leading contender to rejuvenate the Blaugrana. Deco, in response to the rumors, stated that while Mourinho is a close friend, they haven’t communicated in some time. Additionally, Deco outlined the desired qualities in the next Barcelona manager, emphasizing adaptability to the club’s situation and the ability to nurture young talents.

Barcelona’s ties with Jose Mourinho’s agent, Jorge Mendes, further fuel speculation about Mourinho’s candidacy, given Mendes’ involvement in securing loan signings for the club in the past. Alongside Mourinho, several Premier League managers have been linked with the Barcelona job, with Jurgen Klopp emerging as a particularly attractive option following his decision to leave Liverpool. Despite Klopp’s announced sabbatical, rumors persist linking him to Barcelona.

Another name in the mix is Mikel Arteta, with reports suggesting he might leave Arsenal to pursue the Barcelona managerial role. However, Arteta has refuted these claims, denouncing them as “upsetting” and “totally fake news.” Roberto De Zerbi, currently managing Brighton & Hove Albion, is also rumored as a candidate, with Pep Guardiola reportedly recommending him to his former club. However, Barcelona might face competition from Liverpool for De Zerbi’s services.

In summary, Barcelona’s search for a new manager has sparked numerous rumors, with Mourinho, Klopp, Arteta, and De Zerbi among the speculated candidates. Deco’s remarks shed light on the club’s criteria for the next manager, emphasizing the need for adaptability and a focus on developing young players. Amidst the speculation, Barcelona’s decision-makers face the challenge of selecting the right leader to guide the club back to success.