‘I’d love to’ – Xavi has told Man Utd what they need to hear after Ruben Amorim sack - The Mirror

Manchester United have restarted their search for a new manager after Ruben Amorim was sacked, and former target Xavi has already made his feelings clear on a move to England

Manchester United's hunt for a new manager is back underway following Ruben Amorim's sacking, with free agent Xavi re-emerging as an option once more. The Spaniard has been without a club since departing Barcelona in 2024 and has previously expressed his interest in managing in England.

United confirmed Amorim's dismissal on Monday, less than 24 hours after a frustrating 1-1 stalemate at Leeds. Yet it was his post-match remarks, where he criticised certain board members for not concentrating on their own responsibilities, that likely proved to be the final straw.

Xavi, 45, has previous connections with United chief executive officer Omar Berrada from his time at the Camp Nou prior to his departure in 2011. The duo could now be set for a reunion on English soil, where Xavi has expressed his willingness to take on a future role.

"Of course? Where, I don't know," he revealed to The Athletic when asked about his prospects last year. "There's no hurry for me, but I'd like a good project.

"Like, 'You have four years to work and make a project.' I'd love to work in the Premier League, because I love the passion there.

"In Spain, it's too much about the result. Or a national team, that would appeal. When I dreamed about being a coach, I dreamed about being in a World Cup or European Championship."

Despite United's top brass possibly growing weary of Amorim's stubbornness to stick to his preferred tactics, they were fundamentally committed to a long-term vision, which aligns with Xavi's main criteria.

Amorim managed to reach the Europa League final last season but didn't secure any major silverware during his tenure at United. He also presided over the club's worst Premier League finish, ending up in 15th place last season.

One could argue Amorim's dismissal was overdue, and some of United's rivals may have shown him the door much earlier. There were also rumours of discontent among certain board members, with director of scouting Christopher Vivell and director of football Jason Wilcox reportedly dissatisfied with his approach.

It's likely that time will be needed to dismantle Amorim's United if his successor decides to revert to a four-man defence. In this regard, Xavi could be the perfect choice, favouring a back four that can shift into a three-man defence when necessary.

Xavi was previously considered for the Old Trafford hot seat when Erik ten Hag was given the boot in October 2024. At the time, it was reported Berrada led a four-man delegation to Barcelona to discuss the opportunity with Xavi face-to-face.

Just over a year later, United find themselves in a strikingly similar situation, with Berrada possibly looking to reignite those talks. If Xavi still has aspirations to manage among England's top tier, he knows he already has an interested party.

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