LaLiga: Xavi’s return to Barcelona confirmed

Al Sadd have confirmed Xavi Hernandez will leave the club to become Barcelona’s new manager.

Xavi leaves the Qatari club, after Barca paid a release clause to acquire the services of their former captain.

The 41-year-old is set to replace Ronald Koeman, who was sacked last week following a poor start to the campaign.

Al Sadd chief executive, Turki Al-Ali, said: “Xavi informed us a few days ago of his desire to go to Barcelona at this particular time, because of the critical stage his hometown club is going through, and we understand this and decided not to stand in his way.

“The Al Sadd administration has agreed on Xavi’s move to Barcelona after the payment of the release clause stipulated in the contract. We’ve agreed on cooperation with Barcelona in the future.

“Xavi is an important part of Al Sadd’s history and we wish him success.”

Xavi left Barcelona in 2015 after helping the club win 25 trophies, including four Champions Leagues and eight La Liga titles, in 17 seasons.