Xavi Ready to Take Manchester United Job "Immediately" if Amorim is Sacked
Crisis at Old Trafford
Manchester United is in turmoil as Ruben Amorim faces mounting pressure after a disastrous start to the 2025-26 season. The Red Devils sit 14th in the Premier League after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Brentford, their third loss in just six matches. Amorim has won only nine of his 33 Premier League games since taking charge, failing to record consecutive victories nearly 10 months into his tenure.
Adding to the misery, United were knocked out of the Carabao Cup by League Two side Grimsby Town.
Xavi's Immediate Interest
According to reliable transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernández would accept the Manchester United job immediately if approached. Romano revealed that Xavi is currently studying the Premier League and would make the move to Old Trafford without hesitation—even without European football on offer this season.
Xavi has been without a managerial position since leaving Barcelona in summer 2024. While Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad is also pursuing him, Spanish outlet MARCA reports he has no interest in moving to the Middle East.
Why Xavi Wants the Premier League
In a recent interview with The Athletic, Xavi described the Premier League as "pure football" and expressed his love for the passion at venues like Old Trafford. The 45-year-old is seeking a long-term project and views English football as the ideal next step in his managerial career.
During his time at Barcelona, Xavi guided the club to the 2022-23 La Liga title despite significant financial difficulties. He also gave teenage sensation Lamine Yamal his debut, demonstrating trust in young talent.
Amorim's Dire Record
Amorim's statistics make for grim reading. He has won just eight of 31 Premier League games since succeeding Erik ten Hag. Among the 17 teams that have been in the Premier League throughout his tenure, United's 31 points from 31 games places them dead last.
Despite this, club sources indicate backing from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe for a full-season review, with some reports suggesting Amorim could be given the entire 2025-26 season before any decision is made.
Other Candidates
Xavi isn't alone on the shortlist. Reports suggest United have identified three other major candidates: former England manager Gareth Southgate, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner, and Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola. Former Brighton manager Roberto De Zerbi has also been mentioned.
What's Next?
The coming weeks are crucial for Amorim. With a match against newly-promoted Sunderland looming, anything less than a convincing victory could accelerate the timeline for a managerial change.
For Xavi, the opportunity to manage one of football's most iconic clubs—despite its current struggles—represents a chance to prove himself in English football. His willingness to join "immediately" suggests he views Manchester United as too good to pass up.
The question is whether United's hierarchy will maintain their commitment to Amorim or if relentless poor results will force their hand. With Xavi waiting in the wings, the decision may come sooner than expected.
