Barcelona icon Xavi Hernandez has expressed his readiness to take up an international coaching role, revealing that managing at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is among the opportunities he would welcome.
The former Spain midfielder has been without a managerial position since leaving Barcelona in May 2024 after a trophyless season ended his spell at the Camp Nou.
During nearly three seasons in charge of the Catalan giants, Xavi guided the club to the 2022–23 La Liga title and the Supercopa de España before stepping down following a disappointing campaign.
The 46-year-old, who previously enjoyed a successful coaching stint with Qatar’s Al Sadd, winning seven trophies, believes managing a national team now aligns better with both his professional goals and family life.
Speaking to RNE via beIN Sports, Xavi said a national team job would allow him more time with his family while still competing at the highest level.
He added that he would be excited by the prospect of coaching at major international tournaments, including the FIFA World Cup, UEFA European Championship, AFCON or the AFC Asian Cup.
Xavi managed Barcelona in 143 matches, recording 90 victories, 24 draws and 29 defeats, giving him a win rate of 62.9 per cent.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders in football history, Xavi made 767 appearances for Barcelona, scoring 85 goals, and held the club’s all-time appearance record before it was surpassed by Lionel Messi.
A graduate of Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy, he made his senior debut in 1998 and became a key figure during one of the club’s most successful eras.
On the international stage, Xavi earned 133 caps for Spain and played a pivotal role in the country’s golden generation, helping La Roja win UEFA Euro 2008, the 2010 FIFA World Cup and UEFA Euro 2012. He was also named the best player at Euro 2008 before retiring from international football after the 2014 World Cup.