Xavi can reunite with three Barcelona stars at Man Utd if he replaces Erik ten Hag

Xavi Hernandez has reportedly been in contact about becoming Manchester United manager if Erik ten Hag is sacked. It’s claimed that Xavi has emerged as a contender to replace the 54-year-old, who remains under intense pressure to improve results at Old Trafford.

Unlike other attractive options, the Catalan coach is available, having left Barcelona at the end of last season after three years in charge.

And he will have a strong admirer in United chief executive Omar Berrada, given his strong ties to Barcelona, where he worked before joining Manchester City.

As with any manager, Xavi would want to influence the Red Devils’ signings. Express Sport looks at three of his stars at the Camp Nou who could follow him to Old Trafford if he enters the hot seat.

Alejandro Balde

There is no chance Barcelona allow a player of Alejandro Balde’s quality and potential to leave for any reason other than a financial one.

But reports from Spain in the summer suggested that the Blaugrana would be happy to do so if a suitable offer arrived.

His status as an academy graduate means his transfer fee would represent pure profit on the books, and United should be in the market for a new starting left-back.

Luke Shaw looks unlikely ever to overcome his injury demons, while there is no guarantee over how Tyrell Malacia’s return to action will go after over a year on the sidelines.

Franck Kessie

Franck Kessie left Barcelona for Al Hilal under Xavi’s watch, but he was also the coach to bring him to the club.

In fact, upon landing at the Nou Camp, Kessie explained that Xavi was his primary inspiration to join on a free transfer from AC Milan.

The midfield icon must have been incredible to learn from. And while Kessie is in Saudi Arabia, he’s only 27 and would surely be tempted by a return to Europe.

United may have to replace Christian Eriksen and Casemiro next summer, and Kessie could enter the frame.

Frenkie de Jong

Frenkie de Jong isn’t a new name at Old Trafford after that infamous summer-long pursuit in Ten Hag’s first transfer window in 2022.

United would rub salt into the Dutchman’s wounds if they reignited their interest after his departure, but De Jong will have just as big an admirer in Xavi.

The 27-year-old made 107 appearances under his watch, seven more than any other outfield player, but he continues to be linked with a move away.

Ten Hag couldn’t convince De Jong to join him in Manchester, but could Xavi?