Xavi Named Four Man United Players Would Build Team Around But One Remains

Xavi Hernandez previously showered four Manchester United players with praise but only one remains in the ranks amid links of him taking the reins.

United are on the hunt for another new manager after parting company with Ruben Amorim on Monday, a day on from the 1-1 draw with Leeds at Elland Road.

In his post-match press conference, Amorim had appeared to aim a dig at the club's hierarchy and reports emerged that he had a heated meeting with director of football Jason Wilcox while discussing transfer targets.

Former United midfielder Darren Fletcher, who had been managing the Under 18's, will take charge on an interim basis.

The Red Devils reportedly believe a caretaker manager before looking for a permanent appointment in the summer when more options emerge, is the way to go.

Barcelona legend Xavi is among the long list of potential candidates, with Diario AS stating that the 45-year-old is on the shortlist.

In the past, he has been heavily linked with United - who he came up against in the Europa League play-off against United in February 2023.

Xavi has been linked with the Manchester United. Image: Getty

Ahead of the fixture, which United won on aggregate, Xavi picked out Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, Bruno Fernandes and Fred as important players.

"In the transition he [Rashford] is very, very dangerous," Xavi said.

"So, yes, we need to take care of all of them, but particularly Rashford.

"He's one of the most dangerous players in Europe. He's very fast, he is very good at dribbling in one-versus-one.

"He [Ten Hag] is getting all the talent out of his players. You see [Jadon] Sancho, Rashford, the Portuguese guy [Bruno Fernandes], and look how Fred is playing."

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Ironically, Rashford is now thriving on loan at Xavi's beloved Barca on loan and looks poised to sign permanently after eight goals and assists in 12 starts in La Liga.

Sancho has found himself loaned out to Aston Villa, where Rashford spent last season, after Chelsea decided against signing him.

Sancho is currently on loan at Villa after being frozen out at United. Image: Getty

Fred is plying his trade with Fenerbahce in Turkey and captain Fernandes is still United's main man, with his absence sorely felt after he picked up a rare injury against Aston Villa in December.

Xavi has been out of work since leaving Barcelona in May 2024. However, he is still keen on a return to management and is particularly keen on coaching in England.

"I want to return as coach again," he told The Athletic last year.

"I’d like a good project — something like a ‘you have four years to work and make a project’ type of thing. I would love to work in the Premier League..”

Fletcher's first game as United boss will be against Burnley at Turf Moor on Wednesday night.