Messi tells Barcelona who to appoint as Xavi’s replacement

Former Barcelona captain Lionel Messi has reportedly recommended Marcelo Gallardo as the successor to manager Xavi Hernandez.

According to El Nacional, Messi has advised Barcelona to consider bringing in Gallardo, the former manager of River Plate, to take over at Camp Nou after Xavi’s departure.

The report suggests that Gallardo, who is currently managing Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad, would be willing to leave his current position if Barcelona were to extend an offer to him.

Barcelona faces a significant decision as they prepare for the summer, needing to find a replacement for departing manager Xavi, who announced his intention to step down at the end of the season. Therefore, the Catalan club must identify the most suitable candidate to succeed the Spaniard.