Journalist Guillem Balague Questions Xavi’s Suitability for Manchester United Role

Spanish football journalist Guillem Balague has voiced his opinion that Xavi does not possess the appropriate managerial calibre for the Manchester United position, despite recent speculation linking him to the role. Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live about the former Barcelona boss, following Erik ten Hag’s departure from Old Trafford, Balague stated: “When Xavi left Barcelona he felt burned out because it is a tough job as we all know. His idea was to take some time off and relax, but all of a sudden there has been interest from the Premier League.” He clarified that “He has not been interviewed by Manchester United though.” Balague further commented, “It would be an amazing job to have but I do not believe he should be an automatic choice from United.” He noted Xavi’s limited experience managing outside his home country, adding: “He doesn’t have a lot of experience abroad but if we waited for managers to have experience in the Premier League then they would never get there.” The journalist elaborated that appointing Xavi would constitute “a leap of faith from Xavi and I don’t think he is the calibre that they need or are looking for. It would require a complete transformation of the squad as his style is different.” Balague concluded by suggesting an alternative, asserting: “The answer to Manchester United, in my opinion, is already there and it is Ruud van Nistelrooy.”